BLON X Z JOJO
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Blon x Z Reviews Jojo (this was originally posted at avaliasom.com)
Presentation
Hello, friends of AvaliaSom. The one I bring you is the Blon x Z Reviews Jojo, a phone that was kindly sent to me by Linsoul, without any commitment or obligation to speak highly of the phone, just providing my opinions about it. Xiè xiè, Linsoul.
This phone costs 49 USD (or around 60 USD applying 20% Brazilian taxes for purchases below 50 USD).
Zeos Pantera ( Z Reviews and In-Ear Fetish channel ) is my favorite foreign reviewer,
The name Jojo, contrary to what may be mistakenly interpreted, has nothing to do with the manga/anime Jojo's Bizarre Adventure
In terms of unboxing, I'm uncomfortable with an earphone of this price with this cigarette box, and the art on the front is a bit meaningless, with the headphones in 2D rendering jumping over the brand's name. On the back of the box there is a paragraph about Z Reviews and another about BLON, this brand that lives in the hearts of chi-fi root consumers.
Inside, the unboxing reminds me of the Z300: the headphones in the cradle in the foreground, including the fact that they manage to store so much stuff in such a small box. Starting with the tips, which are three pairs that didn't work at all with my ears. There is also the typical BLON bag that resembles a bag of rice, a classic.
The cable deserves a separate paragraph, as it is a beautiful piece in pink (or purple, or lilac, I don't know, I'm not good with colors) and silver, which creates a great contrast. It is a thick cable, made of oxygen-free aluminum foil, and features a chrome-plated connector, splitter and chin slider. The connections are 3.5 mm for the source and QDC 0.78 mm for the phone. By the way, the QDC connector made of low quality plastic ends up clashing with the set.
Back to the IEMs, it has the same body as the BL-05, that is, it is a very small piece, with a shape that resembles Shure ones. It has a predominant lilac (or purple) color, with gold details on the faceplate. There is also the Z Reviews logo and the name of the phone written on both sides. The nozzle is short and narrow, with a metal grid at the tip.
Its sound is generated by a 10 mm dynamic driver, whose diaphragm material is not detailed by BLON.
Comfort
Here's the point that almost made me apologize to Linsoul and skip Jojo's review altogether: the fit. And I must say that it's the fault of the tips offered by the brand, which are totally incompatible with big ears like mine.
The short nozzle and curvature of the cable fitting exacerbate the problem, and none of my tips worked with it, and I tried with Xelastec, Softears UC Tips, Tanchjim T-EAR Tips and Moondrop Spring Tips, without any success. With either of them, the sound was thin and the fit in the ears was painful.
In the Zeos video , he also complained about the fit, and said he used the Dunu S&S Tips, tips that I hate and vice versa, so I didn't even get to test them. He also mentioned the Spinfit CP100, and I tried those, but my skin doesn't like the Spinfit material, and as a result Jojo was left on the sidelines, until salvation arrived.
My Project SKY #001 (Feliphe Espíldora's phone) came with the magnificent Spinfit W1, and when using the W1 size L with Jojo, the fit was perfect! They have the ideal length and width to provide a good seal, without forcing the cable to press against the ear cartilage. In other words, with the right tips, the Jojo is a comfortable headset, which does not generate any pressure on the ear canal and provides an excellent seal.
Musical Sound
I tried the phone on different sources, which are: iPhone SE (my “DAP”), Dell Laptop, Apple Dongle, Truthear Shio, iFi Uno, Cayin RU6, Topping G5 and Topping DX3 Pro+.
By the way, I invite you to check out my headphone test playlist on Spotify . This is a dynamic playlist, and the songs can change at any time, but they will always follow the purpose of presenting all the points I mention in my musical evaluation of the headphones.
Regarding sources, Jojo plays well on any device, and takes on the characteristics of each source well (like the heat of the RU6, for example), but does not scale significantly with more refined sources.
- Bass: Level 4.5/5, Extension 5/5, Speed 3/5, Texture 4/5
Speaking first about the sub-bass, the Jojo is cavernous! He brings the most earthly beats of “What It Is” and throws them in your face, and you don't even need to listen to them at high volumes to do so. There are punches and more sub-bass punches, but these are only felt when there is a correct seal. With the wrong tips, the subs disappear.
In terms of texture, Jojo is almost ideal in most scenarios, from the bass line of “Como Tudo Deve Ser - CBJR” to a “Drum Solo” by Gojira. I just didn't give full score for this aspect because I missed more present and palpable cellos. Somehow they sound slightly thinner than I would expect from them.
And I confess that I was afraid of listening to “Valhalla” with Jojo and feeling the same struggling as the Z300, but the situation is very different. Ok, these transducers may not be as fast as some LCP or Beryllium ones, but they still perform beautifully, and struggles are very rare and/or imperceptible.
- Midrange: Level 3/5, Presence 3/5, Clarity 3/5, Voices 3/5, Transparency 2/5
It's natural for a V tuning to bring less emphasis to the midrange, and this occurs on the Jojo. However, this does not mean that the mids are obfuscated, after all there is presence and clarity in the mids, both of voices and instruments in general, and I just missed a little more transparency in tracks like “Cafe 1930”, even though the experience is good overall.
The male voices bring a good dose of warmth and intensity, and more velvety female voices like Buika also sound very pleasant. On the other hand, I noticed sweeter voices like Ariana Grande's, slightly shrill, a little less soft and more burning than they should be.
Sopranos like Louane don't go over the top on the highest notes, and I didn't notice more sibilance than expected on tracks like Evanescence's “Hello”. And a point that deserves to be highlighted is the intensity of the guitar solo of “This I Love” on this phone. It was really unexpected, and very pleasant!
- Treble: Level 3/5, Brightness 2/5, Airiness 3/5, Extension 3/5, Timbre 3/5
In terms of treble, the Jojo delivers a little less than I expected. The brightness does not stand out, and the splash of the dishes of a “September in Montreal” is timid, lacking life, lacking intensity. The same lack of prominence is found in the triangles on Lucy Alves' tracks.
In contrast, the highest notes of Golden Salt's violin in “Nothing Else Matters” sound with a lot of air between the notes, and the extension surprised me, as I thought the IEM would die sooner. The tone of the violins is very beautiful, at the same time that the timbre of the cymbals disappointed me a little.
Jojo's treble sound is very curious, not to say chaotic. And I must say that I like this unpredictability, because when you combine these elements in “Barbados”, for example, the end result is very interesting.
- Technicalities: Sound Stage 4/5, Image 3/5, Layering 2/5, Separation 2/5, Details 3/5, Resolution 3/5
Zeos' intention with the Jojo tuning was to create a headphone with a “huge” sound, in his words. If what he wanted was a wide stage, he got it. There is a considerable amplitude of stage on this phone, although it is a more laterally extended stage than exactly a three-dimensional stage.
On the other hand, it is a huge stage whose image is somewhat chaotic, with the feeling that there are elements overlapping all the time, like in “Ella Baila Sola”, for example. And the layering is slightly weak, without a well-defined layered presentation. Thus, equally weak is the instrument separation, where tracks like BABYMETAL's “Brand New Day” can make Jojo sweat to keep from messing everything up.
The level of detail is good, and some microdetails can be noticed here or there. Finally, its resolution is generally adequate for the price range, without honorable mention, but without demerit.
Sound in Games
For battle royale games, Jojo performed well in PUBG. It delivers the location and distance of emitters in the horizontal spectrum well, even when they are diagonal, but fails to deliver a good perception of opponents on the vertical axis. Rating 3/5.
In FPS games, such as CS2 (without changing the sound settings), Jojo delivers a less than ideal experience, as its bass tends to be very prominent, and in more intense exchanges, it is difficult to accurately distinguish the steps. of opponents. Furthermore, bass impairs the interpretation of what is said by companions on VOIP. Rating 1.5/5.
In casual games, such as Genshin Impact , there is a considerable level of immersion, with a high level of naturalness in the sounds in the world, although there may be some excesses in the sound of waterfalls, or birdsong, for example. However, it is a pleasant headset for games of this type. Rating 4.5/5.
And for simulation games, Jojo delivers excellent engine sound in Forza Horizon 5 , for example. The intensity of the sounds is powerful, very natural, and there is no other note than a 5/5 for it.
Sound in Films/Series, Podcasts and Productivity
Jojo's tuning is intense, and matches well with films or series that follow the same characteristic, like “Django Unchained”, for example. However, in science fiction films like any “Star Wars”, some sounds can sound too much and be a bit annoying.
For those who need an earphone to focus on voices, the Jojo tends to highlight lower voices, and when the recording quality is poor, the voices can sound a little muddy or even incomprehensible in some situations.
Conclusion
After the period I spent testing the BLON x Z Reviews Jojo, the best adjective I have for it's sound is “comfortable”. And, not by chance, I can use this adjective for all the BLON that I have tested to date: BL-03 , BL-07 , Z300 and now the Jojo.
In fact, the Jojo is a nice headphone to listen to, and works very well playing background music. I worked almost a whole day with it in my ears and I didn't even remember that they were there, for two reasons: the first is that they are small and extremely comfortable IEMs (with the right tips), and the second reason is that their sound seems to be coming from speakers in my office, and not exactly the headphones.
The big problem is that this Jojo comfort may not be achieved when taking the headset out of the box. As I mentioned in the review, if the Spinfit W1 hadn't arrived to save the day, the Jojo would still be abandoned on my shelf, because the way the fit was before, it was impossible to listen to it for more than ten minutes.
Ok, once the fit is good, is the Jojo worth buying? The answer is a resounding “no”. “What do you mean, Dosec?”, you might ask me, after all, Jojo is a cool, different, beautiful earphone, and besides, Zeos is a good person reviewer. Right? Right.
And I would tell you that this phone costs 49 USD. In this price range, the Simgot EW200 costs less and reigns supreme (at least until now), although it is always in the shadow of the Truthear Zero:Red, which with a discount of a measly 5 USD becomes the true king of this budget category.
Unless you are a big fan of BLON or Zeos, my tip is simple: save your money. Big hug!
Intro
First time I tried Blon earphones when the chrestomathic budget model bl03 appeared. And at that time it was really a good sound for a relatively small amount of money, but the fit was a problem. Subsequent models were skipped by me. And now I have the purple dream on my hands... sorry, in my ears. Let's see if the JOJO took a lot from its ancestor.
You can purchase the Blon JOJO at the official Linsoul store.
Specifications
- Driver Type: 10mm dynamic driver with composite diaphragm
- Sensitivity: 106dB/Vrms@1KHz
- Impedance: 32Ω@1KHz
- Colour: Purple (Metallic).
- Capsule Material: Zinc alloy die-cast + gold foil (18-carat real gold plated).
- Jack Connector: SE 3.5mm
- Connectors: 2Pin 0.78mm.
- Cable: Four strands of silver-plated aluminium wire.
In the package we have a good quality cable in the color of the shells, several types of eartips and a carry case.
Fit and ergonomics
Shells' shape has caused me doubts since the appearance of bl05. However, in practice the fit did not cause me any complaints. The shells are small and fit nicely into the ears without causing any discomfort. The length of the nozzles are also surprisingly enough.
Sound
JOJO offers the listener a sound with an emphasis on bass. The bass is voluminous, with slightly extended fades, quite massive. It does not cross that line when bass starts to press on the brain, but it feels dominant. Because of this, the lower register instruments in acoustic tracks are too bloated and a lot of information is lost behind them. So the bass guitar and drums take the main attention. But in pop music and electronics this type of bass is very useful. By the way and other frequencies are suitable for these genres.
Mids and treble are tuned very comfortably, I would even say excessively calm. They do not cause any irritation and unpleasant feelings. Resolution in these areas is mediocre and does not give in all its glory to feel the nuances of the recording. Highs do not let you hear recording flaws in the tracks, but the loss of detail is too much. At the same time, highs sound very distant, primarily due to the predominance of low frequencies.
Conclusion
I can't call JOJO versatile earphones. You can listen any genre without fatigue but , for my taste, their tuning is well suited only for electronic and pop music. Only this niche and nothing more.
Thanks for reading!
All our measurements you can check on our squig.
Introduction
To talk about BLON is to talk about its successful BL-03 model. Founded in 2014, it continues to seek to improve that model. To do so, it has not hesitated to collaborate with the various successful reviewers of the moment. If recently WGZBLON collaborated with the reviewer HawaiiBadBoy of "Bad Guy Good Audio Reviews", to create the Z300, now it is the turn of Zeos Pantera of Z Reviews, one of the main reviewers of audio products on Youtube. BLON x Z Reviews aims to make professional IEMS affordable for everyone. Jojo is an upgraded version of the popular BLON BL05S monitors. They offer improved sound quality, durability and a stylish design. The Jojo incorporates a high-resolution dynamic transducer with a highly responsive composite diaphragm, offering low distortion and a balanced sound signature with powerful bass. Constructed from die-cast zinc alloy and 18-carat real gold-plated sheet metal, the Jojo sports a luxurious and durable metallic purple casing. The removable four-strand, oxygen-free silver-plated aluminium cable ensures noise-free audio transmission, and its 0.78mm 2-pin connector allows for easy replacement with other cables. Acoustically tuned according to Z Reviews' experience, the Jojo has a balanced sound signature with an emphasis on powerful bass. With high-quality bass response and excellent detail retrieval, the Jojo is a high-performance IEM perfect for music lovers and musicians on stage. After this "copied" introduction, let's see what I think of them.
Specifications
Packaging
The Blon Jojo come in a small box of purple and blue tones, measuring 103x75x39mm. On the main side there is a drawing of the capsules on the background of their well-known slogan. Above are the brand icons and the Zeos Pantera icon. Below is the model name and a description of the model. On one side are the specifications and on the back is an about Z Reviews and the brand itself. After lifting the cardboard sleeve you can see both capsules encased in a white foam mould lined with cardboard of the same colour. On the back of the box, the famous Blon slogan once again stands out. Underneath the mould is the classic fabric pouch with the Blon logo and the rest of the accessories. In a nutshell:
The case is quite small, the three sets of silicone tips and the storage pouch are appreciated. I always prefer a zippered case, but there are even other competing models that don't even come with a cloth pouch. The cable is, in my opinion, quite good for the price of the set. It's true that I don't like the Blon connection type, because it's not the most common, but I don't think it's necessary to change the cable for another one, because of the quality of the current one. Although, it is true that the most compromising factor of the whole set is the colour: too much purple, very similar to the anime that matches in name with the model, more "Bizarre Adventure".
Construction and Design
Except for the purple colour, the slightly more textured paint, the Z Reviews logo and the model name written on the capsules, the Jojo is the same as the BL-05. It's a classic, oval spiral design, with an all-metal, rounded body. The parts are somewhat stubby and their weight is noticeable. The external face has a part, in the shape of a magnifying glass, of golden colour, where you can read "JOJO", in its interior, where the lens of this magnifying glass would be located, you can see the logo of Z Reviews in a capsule and the logo of the brand in the other one. This internal part has the same colour as the rest of the capsule. The entire magnifying glass face is two separate pieces, which protrude from the body of the capsule.
At the end of the spiral, the connectors for the 0.78 two-pin cables are located. The shape is customised and the same as the BL-03, but, due to its popularity, it is not difficult to find compatible cables. Both connectors are embedded in a rectangular piece of translucent plastic.
The capsules are made up of two parts, outer and inner. The division can be clearly seen, with no fault visible at the junction. The nozzles are located on the inner, narrower edge of the oval, forming a fairly open angle with respect to the base of the capsules. Their length, at the shortest part, is approximately 5 mm. These mouthpieces have a narrower groove of 4.6 mm, while the wider part, base and outer ring, measures 5.6 mm. The filter protecting the orifice is also made of metal, with a fairly tightly woven mesh. Near the base of the mouthpieces, on the inner side of the capsules, there is a hole.
The cable is made up of 4 strands. Two are purple and two are silver, both with black speckles. The plug is 3.5mm, gold plated. The connector is a straight, smooth, metallic cylinder with a mirror effect. The splitter piece is similar, but smaller. The pin is a metal ring with the same finish. The two-pin connectors are completely enclosed in a slightly angled, black plastic sleeve. They are marked with the channel letter on the outside near the edge. The cable leading to the sleeve is protected by a semi-rigid transparent plastic sheath, which gives it the over-ear shape.
The shape of the capsules is familiar and I can only criticise the colour. I still think that the cable is of very good quality for the price and the problem is also the colour, which is not to my liking. Others may love it, but it's not my style, I would have preferred something less flashy.
Adjustment and Ergonomics
With the right tips, the ergonomics of the Jojos are superior. Their weight is noticeable in the hands. However, in the ears, this feature is less appreciated, because the fit is simple and quick. The oval and spiral outer shape ensures an excellent fit for the cable. The inner part, also oval and very rounded, ensures a very pleasant contact with the pinna. Its size is not small, but personally, I have not found it difficult to fit. It does not protrude too much, nor does it rub against the outer parts of the ear. The angle of the mouthpiece is well thought out and the silicone tips fit well in the ear canal. The only problem is that they are a bit short, providing a shallow fit. Despite this, the fit is quite good and durable. No readjustment is necessary and the sound is not position dependent. Due to their good fit, they move very little, can be used for everyday wear and also for gentle exercise. As a result, the isolation is remarkable.
After having used other IEMS, the return to the Jojo proves to me that their ergonomics are excellent, they fit me very well, the fit is very durable and the integration with my ears is superior. Excellent. With the cable improved to the BL-05 model, the discomfort that that one gave me, the comfort is better than then.
Sound
Profile
The BLON x Zeos Jojo have a warm tuning, with controlled and sustained mid-highs, while the treble is soft and not too pronounced. The emphasis is on the sub-bass and mid-bass barrier, which gives it a noticeable and wide low end. The mids are not sunken and the rapid but moderate rise towards the upper-mids adds a certain level of clarity, liveliness and balance, but without overcoming the mark of a warm and calm sound in the treble.
Bass
The bass is characterised by a dark, sensory, slightly rubbery, forceful and subtly rough tone. In the very low-frequency pure tone test, the sensory character of the low tones is outstanding. The nature of the reproduction is accurate and realistic, more felt than heard, and there is no coloured sound ripple. Such reproduction is accompanied by a dark timbre that envelops the LFOs with an appealing realism. The 40Hz tones are represented with vigour, forcefulness, a good level of speed, but also with a point of gumminess that rounds out their punch, prolongs it, limiting its dryness, adding juiciness and some hint of extended texture. Not that I can say that the bass is thick, but it is somewhat more corporeal, dense, ample, elastic and moist. Despite all that, it recovers well and the level of rubberiness and elasticity allows it to round the notes and disappear without too much aftertaste, lingering long enough in the atmosphere to demonstrate volume, pressure, energy and that dark character that accompanies it throughout its journey. I wouldn't call it a skilled, technical bass, but its execution is fast and efficient enough to define the sub-bass without becoming diffuse. On the contrary, the Jojo's are able to draw sub-bass lines with enough rigour not to mix them up, allowing both the bass drums and the sub-bass lines to be differentiated from each other, clearly discernible from the rest of the bass notes and also from the rest of the frequencies. Despite generating a volumetric bass, the Jojo's take care of the mids and vocals. It is inevitable to feel the sensory power of the low end, that mixture of rubbery and dark energy, which in turn is able to be executed with realism and without losing composure in those complex, overlapping and unfiltered bass situations. It is in these situations that the Jojo's are very capable of defining the low tones, aided by their dark timbre and elastic capacity, to draw a well controlled bass, well composed, forceful, corporeal, layered, even defined despite the roundness of their execution. As a whole, the bass is very enjoyable, far from being abominable or diffuse, although its power, volume, energy and quantity is high, but without reaching an oppressive level. Certainly, the Jojo could be on that level of IEMS suitable for bass lovers.
Mids
Dark, dense, mellow and warm in origin, the first half of the middle section is characterised by this and by an evident corporeal feel. There is a clear underlying physical component, both in the male vocals and the instruments. However, the result is not as hazy or diffuse as one might expect. The clear roundness of the bass is not as pronounced in the central range, but rather there is a gain in definition, more concrete edges, raising the resolution, explicitness and descriptiveness. The result is still not transparent, clear or luminous. But there is a more perspicuous separation that helps to distance the elements from each other and to draw them in a more defined and evident way. Despite this, his technical skill remains superficial. He does not tend to crowd the details, but he is obtuse when it comes to depicting detail in the background, even if there is the necessary space to recreate it. In this sense, the Jojos are better able to render foreground detail, while those in the background are not shown at all.
Despite the uniformity of the frequency response of the central range, the voices are not in the foreground, neither the male nor the female voices. Although there is a relative level of closeness, even prominence, if the song requires it. The former come across as denser and fuller, while the latter feel a little more nuanced, with a certain lack of brightness that pushes them towards the light and more showy details. However, of course, they are soft and free of sibilance, perhaps a little too much so. That is why, on many occasions, both instruments and voices lack harmonics and natural details. The representation of the mid-highs is quite controlled. There is only one point of clarity, but thanks to the higher degree of resolution, a sense of separation and transparency is achieved, which is necessary to avoid a more noticeable and prevailing darkness and warmth. However, there is a lack of sparkle and vibrancy to express a higher level of detail, as well as more extended and realistic harmonics. Again, BLON goes for a warm, calm, smooth and nuanced tuning, which has a tendency to omit micro detail, eschewing a more technical profile in the interest of offering a more musical, confident sound, far removed from any analytical feel.
Treble
The upper zone is represented as a controlled decrease. While the peak is at the beginning, the rest of the range has a tendency to gradually soften. Although the disappearance of the treble is prevented by a very smooth descent, both the extension and the energy level feel limited. Even so, the behaviour is not unrealistic; it is a relatively muted brightness, but overall, they manage to express the range with a certain nuanced realism. It's not an opaque or alibied high end, perhaps that sparkle in the second half is real and not an artifice of the microphone, something that might explain that point of extension and air that can be observed in the ambience. Be that as it may, the treble is not enough to complete the rest of the range in its harmonic extension and definition, but it does represent the upper range with relative assurance and suitably calm aptitude, in order to maintain musical realism.
Soundstage, Separation
The Jojo's are able to recreate a good sense of volume that has a tendency to expand their sound. Thanks, too, to their level of depth, the impression of openness is broadened, elevated, gaining in height and extending almost beyond the front 180 degrees. The sense of laterality is noticeable and the scene expands a little further, but without quite encircling the head. Even so, the scene appears slightly volatile and gauzy, helped by a good level of separation and the presence of distance between the elements. But, contrary to what one might think, that distance is not always filled with the detail that should appear there, being only competent at representing the macro and medium elements, without reproducing the micro detail or those found in the background.
The imaging is more than adequate and the elements can be placed with some ease on stage, thanks to the level of separation that prevents the music from being completely dense, too uniform or too cohesive. In truth, perhaps one of the Jojo's strengths, despite its warmth and energy level, it doesn't come across as completely opaque, over-conjunctive or completely homogenous, which helps to make its stage more expansive.
Comparisons
BLON x HBB Z300
There are times when it seems that the enemy is at home. BLON has shortly released two IEMS with similar tuning, each seconded by a famous reviewer, the current BLON x Z Jojo vs BLON x HBB Z300. The Jojo costs $49 and the Z300 $40. The differences in construction are based on the shape of the capsules. The more traditional semi-custom capsule design of the Z300 rivals in comfort with the classic BLON shape of the Jojo. Clearly the Z300's shape may be more ergonomic for many enthusiasts, but the level of fit I get with the Jojo is superior. Both have good cables, but the Jojo's are thicker. Except for the colour, which I would have liked to have been able to choose on the Jojo, the Jojo is better. But, in the end, I prefer the design of the Z300s.
In terms of frequency response, the similarities are obvious, from 800Hz to 7kHz the graph is almost identical, while the differences in the rest of the range are not very big either. The Jojo's have a more prominent mid-bass and more body in the first few bars of the midrange. The first half of the treble is more present in the Z300s, while there is more air in the Jojo. In terms of efficiency level and regardless of what the specs say, the Jojo's sound louder at the same volume level.
In my opinion, the Jojo's present a wider, denser and more complex sound. That extra bass is felt and brings a wider volume to the soundstage, expanding it and giving a feeling of a bigger wall of sound. The sense of fullness I get with the Jojo's is higher. I also find a little more clarity and separation in their approach, with the midrange presentation being a little more delayed in the Z300s.
There is a point of dryness in the bass of the Z300s, they are a little more compact and a little more restrained. The Jojo's have more energy, more extension, a little more gumminess, presence and roughness. They are also a little slower, but the punch and power will be to the taste of the BassHeads over the slightly more subdued and slightly more technical Z300s.
In the mid-range, the Jojo's are denser, with the first half of the mid-range more present, closer and lusher. The Z300s are somewhat more relaxed at this point, also thinner and more distant, something that is clearly noticeable in the male vocals, which are fuller and more prominent in the Jojo. Also the instrumentation is more evident in the Jojo. There may be a little more sparkle in the mid-highs of the Z300s, but the Jojo is more explicit, transparent and detached. The Z300s persist in that sense of smoothness that cohesively ties their sound together, offering a slightly more distant, less defined sound with a less obvious bottom end. In my opinion the Jojo's are more descriptive and offer a superior analytical point.
I think the Z300s are a little better in the treble although there is more air in the Jojo. The Jojo's sound is a bit more muted in the high end, while the first hit is more evident and a bit more natural in the Z300s.
I still think micro detail is better on the Z300s while separation, more defined background, transparency, scene size, volume, expansive feel, depth, even image positioning, the Jojo's are superior.
Conclusion
WGZBLON continues to seek the support of major audio reviewers to expand its catalogue. Building on the familiar BL-05 base, BLON switches to a striking purple "Bizarre Adventure" colour scheme not suitable for squeamish users. But beyond this anime reference, the Jojo's have the classic Zeos Pantera touch, something along the lines of "give me some more db's in the low end, please". The more recent counterpart reference, the HBB Z300 is somewhat more controlled, but also somewhat less transparent. The Jojo's have widened and extended the low end a step further, improving presence in the low-mids and still gaining a point of transparency, separation, resolution and a hint of air. But overall, these are IEMS with boosted bass, smooth on the upper end, mellow, warm, very comfortable to wear, with a long-lasting fit (if your morphology allows it) and a slightly dark, dense, yet deep, energetic and relatively expansive sound signature. Those looking for brightness, detail, analytical edge and light will have to look elsewhere. But for those who like a quiet profile up top and powerful down low, not to mention midrange, the BLON x Z Jojo is a great alternative for $49.
Sources Used During the Analysis
Purchase Link
You can read the full review in Spanish here
To talk about BLON is to talk about its successful BL-03 model. Founded in 2014, it continues to seek to improve that model. To do so, it has not hesitated to collaborate with the various successful reviewers of the moment. If recently WGZBLON collaborated with the reviewer HawaiiBadBoy of "Bad Guy Good Audio Reviews", to create the Z300, now it is the turn of Zeos Pantera of Z Reviews, one of the main reviewers of audio products on Youtube. BLON x Z Reviews aims to make professional IEMS affordable for everyone. Jojo is an upgraded version of the popular BLON BL05S monitors. They offer improved sound quality, durability and a stylish design. The Jojo incorporates a high-resolution dynamic transducer with a highly responsive composite diaphragm, offering low distortion and a balanced sound signature with powerful bass. Constructed from die-cast zinc alloy and 18-carat real gold-plated sheet metal, the Jojo sports a luxurious and durable metallic purple casing. The removable four-strand, oxygen-free silver-plated aluminium cable ensures noise-free audio transmission, and its 0.78mm 2-pin connector allows for easy replacement with other cables. Acoustically tuned according to Z Reviews' experience, the Jojo has a balanced sound signature with an emphasis on powerful bass. With high-quality bass response and excellent detail retrieval, the Jojo is a high-performance IEM perfect for music lovers and musicians on stage. After this "copied" introduction, let's see what I think of them.
Specifications
- Driver Type: 10mm dynamic driver with composite diaphragm
- Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz
- Sensitivity: 106dB/Vrms@1KHz
- Impedance: 32Ω@1KHz
- Colour: Purple (Metallic).
- Capsule Material: Zinc alloy die-cast + gold foil (18-carat real gold plated).
- Jack Connector: SE 3.5mm gold plated.
- Capsule Connection Type: 2Pin 0.78mm.
- Cable: Four strands of silver-plated aluminium wire.
- Cable Length: 1.2m±5%.
Packaging
The Blon Jojo come in a small box of purple and blue tones, measuring 103x75x39mm. On the main side there is a drawing of the capsules on the background of their well-known slogan. Above are the brand icons and the Zeos Pantera icon. Below is the model name and a description of the model. On one side are the specifications and on the back is an about Z Reviews and the brand itself. After lifting the cardboard sleeve you can see both capsules encased in a white foam mould lined with cardboard of the same colour. On the back of the box, the famous Blon slogan once again stands out. Underneath the mould is the classic fabric pouch with the Blon logo and the rest of the accessories. In a nutshell:
- The two Blon x Z Jojo capsules.
- One 4-strand cable with 0.78mm interface and gold-plated 3.5mm SE connector.
- Three pairs of grey silicone tips, sizes SxMxL.
- Three pairs of white silicone tips, narrow channel, sizes SxMxL.
- Three pairs of white silicone tips, wide channel, sizes SxMxL.
The case is quite small, the three sets of silicone tips and the storage pouch are appreciated. I always prefer a zippered case, but there are even other competing models that don't even come with a cloth pouch. The cable is, in my opinion, quite good for the price of the set. It's true that I don't like the Blon connection type, because it's not the most common, but I don't think it's necessary to change the cable for another one, because of the quality of the current one. Although, it is true that the most compromising factor of the whole set is the colour: too much purple, very similar to the anime that matches in name with the model, more "Bizarre Adventure".
Construction and Design
Except for the purple colour, the slightly more textured paint, the Z Reviews logo and the model name written on the capsules, the Jojo is the same as the BL-05. It's a classic, oval spiral design, with an all-metal, rounded body. The parts are somewhat stubby and their weight is noticeable. The external face has a part, in the shape of a magnifying glass, of golden colour, where you can read "JOJO", in its interior, where the lens of this magnifying glass would be located, you can see the logo of Z Reviews in a capsule and the logo of the brand in the other one. This internal part has the same colour as the rest of the capsule. The entire magnifying glass face is two separate pieces, which protrude from the body of the capsule.
At the end of the spiral, the connectors for the 0.78 two-pin cables are located. The shape is customised and the same as the BL-03, but, due to its popularity, it is not difficult to find compatible cables. Both connectors are embedded in a rectangular piece of translucent plastic.
The capsules are made up of two parts, outer and inner. The division can be clearly seen, with no fault visible at the junction. The nozzles are located on the inner, narrower edge of the oval, forming a fairly open angle with respect to the base of the capsules. Their length, at the shortest part, is approximately 5 mm. These mouthpieces have a narrower groove of 4.6 mm, while the wider part, base and outer ring, measures 5.6 mm. The filter protecting the orifice is also made of metal, with a fairly tightly woven mesh. Near the base of the mouthpieces, on the inner side of the capsules, there is a hole.
The cable is made up of 4 strands. Two are purple and two are silver, both with black speckles. The plug is 3.5mm, gold plated. The connector is a straight, smooth, metallic cylinder with a mirror effect. The splitter piece is similar, but smaller. The pin is a metal ring with the same finish. The two-pin connectors are completely enclosed in a slightly angled, black plastic sleeve. They are marked with the channel letter on the outside near the edge. The cable leading to the sleeve is protected by a semi-rigid transparent plastic sheath, which gives it the over-ear shape.
The shape of the capsules is familiar and I can only criticise the colour. I still think that the cable is of very good quality for the price and the problem is also the colour, which is not to my liking. Others may love it, but it's not my style, I would have preferred something less flashy.
Adjustment and Ergonomics
With the right tips, the ergonomics of the Jojos are superior. Their weight is noticeable in the hands. However, in the ears, this feature is less appreciated, because the fit is simple and quick. The oval and spiral outer shape ensures an excellent fit for the cable. The inner part, also oval and very rounded, ensures a very pleasant contact with the pinna. Its size is not small, but personally, I have not found it difficult to fit. It does not protrude too much, nor does it rub against the outer parts of the ear. The angle of the mouthpiece is well thought out and the silicone tips fit well in the ear canal. The only problem is that they are a bit short, providing a shallow fit. Despite this, the fit is quite good and durable. No readjustment is necessary and the sound is not position dependent. Due to their good fit, they move very little, can be used for everyday wear and also for gentle exercise. As a result, the isolation is remarkable.
After having used other IEMS, the return to the Jojo proves to me that their ergonomics are excellent, they fit me very well, the fit is very durable and the integration with my ears is superior. Excellent. With the cable improved to the BL-05 model, the discomfort that that one gave me, the comfort is better than then.
Sound
Profile
The BLON x Zeos Jojo have a warm tuning, with controlled and sustained mid-highs, while the treble is soft and not too pronounced. The emphasis is on the sub-bass and mid-bass barrier, which gives it a noticeable and wide low end. The mids are not sunken and the rapid but moderate rise towards the upper-mids adds a certain level of clarity, liveliness and balance, but without overcoming the mark of a warm and calm sound in the treble.
Bass
The bass is characterised by a dark, sensory, slightly rubbery, forceful and subtly rough tone. In the very low-frequency pure tone test, the sensory character of the low tones is outstanding. The nature of the reproduction is accurate and realistic, more felt than heard, and there is no coloured sound ripple. Such reproduction is accompanied by a dark timbre that envelops the LFOs with an appealing realism. The 40Hz tones are represented with vigour, forcefulness, a good level of speed, but also with a point of gumminess that rounds out their punch, prolongs it, limiting its dryness, adding juiciness and some hint of extended texture. Not that I can say that the bass is thick, but it is somewhat more corporeal, dense, ample, elastic and moist. Despite all that, it recovers well and the level of rubberiness and elasticity allows it to round the notes and disappear without too much aftertaste, lingering long enough in the atmosphere to demonstrate volume, pressure, energy and that dark character that accompanies it throughout its journey. I wouldn't call it a skilled, technical bass, but its execution is fast and efficient enough to define the sub-bass without becoming diffuse. On the contrary, the Jojo's are able to draw sub-bass lines with enough rigour not to mix them up, allowing both the bass drums and the sub-bass lines to be differentiated from each other, clearly discernible from the rest of the bass notes and also from the rest of the frequencies. Despite generating a volumetric bass, the Jojo's take care of the mids and vocals. It is inevitable to feel the sensory power of the low end, that mixture of rubbery and dark energy, which in turn is able to be executed with realism and without losing composure in those complex, overlapping and unfiltered bass situations. It is in these situations that the Jojo's are very capable of defining the low tones, aided by their dark timbre and elastic capacity, to draw a well controlled bass, well composed, forceful, corporeal, layered, even defined despite the roundness of their execution. As a whole, the bass is very enjoyable, far from being abominable or diffuse, although its power, volume, energy and quantity is high, but without reaching an oppressive level. Certainly, the Jojo could be on that level of IEMS suitable for bass lovers.
Mids
Dark, dense, mellow and warm in origin, the first half of the middle section is characterised by this and by an evident corporeal feel. There is a clear underlying physical component, both in the male vocals and the instruments. However, the result is not as hazy or diffuse as one might expect. The clear roundness of the bass is not as pronounced in the central range, but rather there is a gain in definition, more concrete edges, raising the resolution, explicitness and descriptiveness. The result is still not transparent, clear or luminous. But there is a more perspicuous separation that helps to distance the elements from each other and to draw them in a more defined and evident way. Despite this, his technical skill remains superficial. He does not tend to crowd the details, but he is obtuse when it comes to depicting detail in the background, even if there is the necessary space to recreate it. In this sense, the Jojos are better able to render foreground detail, while those in the background are not shown at all.
Despite the uniformity of the frequency response of the central range, the voices are not in the foreground, neither the male nor the female voices. Although there is a relative level of closeness, even prominence, if the song requires it. The former come across as denser and fuller, while the latter feel a little more nuanced, with a certain lack of brightness that pushes them towards the light and more showy details. However, of course, they are soft and free of sibilance, perhaps a little too much so. That is why, on many occasions, both instruments and voices lack harmonics and natural details. The representation of the mid-highs is quite controlled. There is only one point of clarity, but thanks to the higher degree of resolution, a sense of separation and transparency is achieved, which is necessary to avoid a more noticeable and prevailing darkness and warmth. However, there is a lack of sparkle and vibrancy to express a higher level of detail, as well as more extended and realistic harmonics. Again, BLON goes for a warm, calm, smooth and nuanced tuning, which has a tendency to omit micro detail, eschewing a more technical profile in the interest of offering a more musical, confident sound, far removed from any analytical feel.
Treble
The upper zone is represented as a controlled decrease. While the peak is at the beginning, the rest of the range has a tendency to gradually soften. Although the disappearance of the treble is prevented by a very smooth descent, both the extension and the energy level feel limited. Even so, the behaviour is not unrealistic; it is a relatively muted brightness, but overall, they manage to express the range with a certain nuanced realism. It's not an opaque or alibied high end, perhaps that sparkle in the second half is real and not an artifice of the microphone, something that might explain that point of extension and air that can be observed in the ambience. Be that as it may, the treble is not enough to complete the rest of the range in its harmonic extension and definition, but it does represent the upper range with relative assurance and suitably calm aptitude, in order to maintain musical realism.
Soundstage, Separation
The Jojo's are able to recreate a good sense of volume that has a tendency to expand their sound. Thanks, too, to their level of depth, the impression of openness is broadened, elevated, gaining in height and extending almost beyond the front 180 degrees. The sense of laterality is noticeable and the scene expands a little further, but without quite encircling the head. Even so, the scene appears slightly volatile and gauzy, helped by a good level of separation and the presence of distance between the elements. But, contrary to what one might think, that distance is not always filled with the detail that should appear there, being only competent at representing the macro and medium elements, without reproducing the micro detail or those found in the background.
The imaging is more than adequate and the elements can be placed with some ease on stage, thanks to the level of separation that prevents the music from being completely dense, too uniform or too cohesive. In truth, perhaps one of the Jojo's strengths, despite its warmth and energy level, it doesn't come across as completely opaque, over-conjunctive or completely homogenous, which helps to make its stage more expansive.
Comparisons
BLON x HBB Z300
There are times when it seems that the enemy is at home. BLON has shortly released two IEMS with similar tuning, each seconded by a famous reviewer, the current BLON x Z Jojo vs BLON x HBB Z300. The Jojo costs $49 and the Z300 $40. The differences in construction are based on the shape of the capsules. The more traditional semi-custom capsule design of the Z300 rivals in comfort with the classic BLON shape of the Jojo. Clearly the Z300's shape may be more ergonomic for many enthusiasts, but the level of fit I get with the Jojo is superior. Both have good cables, but the Jojo's are thicker. Except for the colour, which I would have liked to have been able to choose on the Jojo, the Jojo is better. But, in the end, I prefer the design of the Z300s.
In terms of frequency response, the similarities are obvious, from 800Hz to 7kHz the graph is almost identical, while the differences in the rest of the range are not very big either. The Jojo's have a more prominent mid-bass and more body in the first few bars of the midrange. The first half of the treble is more present in the Z300s, while there is more air in the Jojo. In terms of efficiency level and regardless of what the specs say, the Jojo's sound louder at the same volume level.
In my opinion, the Jojo's present a wider, denser and more complex sound. That extra bass is felt and brings a wider volume to the soundstage, expanding it and giving a feeling of a bigger wall of sound. The sense of fullness I get with the Jojo's is higher. I also find a little more clarity and separation in their approach, with the midrange presentation being a little more delayed in the Z300s.
There is a point of dryness in the bass of the Z300s, they are a little more compact and a little more restrained. The Jojo's have more energy, more extension, a little more gumminess, presence and roughness. They are also a little slower, but the punch and power will be to the taste of the BassHeads over the slightly more subdued and slightly more technical Z300s.
In the mid-range, the Jojo's are denser, with the first half of the mid-range more present, closer and lusher. The Z300s are somewhat more relaxed at this point, also thinner and more distant, something that is clearly noticeable in the male vocals, which are fuller and more prominent in the Jojo. Also the instrumentation is more evident in the Jojo. There may be a little more sparkle in the mid-highs of the Z300s, but the Jojo is more explicit, transparent and detached. The Z300s persist in that sense of smoothness that cohesively ties their sound together, offering a slightly more distant, less defined sound with a less obvious bottom end. In my opinion the Jojo's are more descriptive and offer a superior analytical point.
I think the Z300s are a little better in the treble although there is more air in the Jojo. The Jojo's sound is a bit more muted in the high end, while the first hit is more evident and a bit more natural in the Z300s.
I still think micro detail is better on the Z300s while separation, more defined background, transparency, scene size, volume, expansive feel, depth, even image positioning, the Jojo's are superior.
Conclusion
WGZBLON continues to seek the support of major audio reviewers to expand its catalogue. Building on the familiar BL-05 base, BLON switches to a striking purple "Bizarre Adventure" colour scheme not suitable for squeamish users. But beyond this anime reference, the Jojo's have the classic Zeos Pantera touch, something along the lines of "give me some more db's in the low end, please". The more recent counterpart reference, the HBB Z300 is somewhat more controlled, but also somewhat less transparent. The Jojo's have widened and extended the low end a step further, improving presence in the low-mids and still gaining a point of transparency, separation, resolution and a hint of air. But overall, these are IEMS with boosted bass, smooth on the upper end, mellow, warm, very comfortable to wear, with a long-lasting fit (if your morphology allows it) and a slightly dark, dense, yet deep, energetic and relatively expansive sound signature. Those looking for brightness, detail, analytical edge and light will have to look elsewhere. But for those who like a quiet profile up top and powerful down low, not to mention midrange, the BLON x Z Jojo is a great alternative for $49.
Sources Used During the Analysis
- Tempotec BHD Pro.
- Tempotec V6.
- Aune X8 XVIII Magic DAC + EarMen ST-Amp.
- Aune M1p.
- Burson Audio Playmate II.
- Hidizs AP80 PRO-X Red Copper LE.
Linsoul Audio Store, offered me this model, in exchange for writing an honest review. I want to make it clear that all my opinions written in this review have not been conditioned by this fact, nor will I ever write anything that I do not really think or feel here. I will only write about my personal opinion in relation to the revised product.
Purchase Link
You can read the full review in Spanish here
Review Of The Blon X Z JoJo
Introduction
In the world of audiophiles, Blon is well known for their IEMs, particularly the Blon BL03, BL05, Z300, etc. They recently released an IEM called the Z300 in partnership with veteran audiophile reviewer HBB, and it received rave reviews for its sound, which I found to be excellent. But today I'll be reviewing their latest release, Blon X Z JoJo, which was produced in partnership with another audiophile reviewer by the name of Z reviews. But before I get started, let me clear up a few things.
Disclaimer
*Since this unit tour was organised by the kindly people at Linsoul, I am grateful to them. And as I've said in all of my evaluations, the same is true for this one: all of the concepts I've expressed below are entirely my own, original ideas that haven't been influenced by anyone else. If interested, go to this link.
*I am not associated with the connection, and I receive no financial assistance from anyone.
*For the remainder of the review, I will refer to these IEMs as “Jojo.”
*I am using different Ear-tips for convenience and better versatility.
*Finally, I will only evaluate the Jojo based on their performance, even though I will explain how it feels and seems physically and aesthetically.
Specification
The Jojo is a single dynamic driver IEM with a 10mm composite membrane diaphragm used in the driver. The shells are made of metal, just like the Blon 05. When used with the appropriate eartips, the shells fit well and offer a good seal. The purple color scheme of the IEMs is complemented by the cable that is included with the earphones. The cable is a four-strand, two-pin, 0.78mm silver-plated aluminum foil wire that is terminated with a 3.5mm straight plug. Nine pairs of eartips in three different types and sizes, as well as a carrying pouch, are included with the IEMs as additional accessories. Technically speaking, the sensitivity is 106dB, and the impedance is 32 Ohms. 20Hz to 20kHz is the range of the frequency response.
Sound
This may be the first blon IEM I've heard with bass this strong, which makes the entire response sound balanced and warm. Higher frequencies that Zeos typically prefer in tuning are adequately present, and the sound is more conventional with a heavy emphasis on the bass. However, the bass is more appealing and superior to the Rinko. After hearing it, I can categorically state that these lower frequencies feel the same. Since he doesn't seem to favor a lot of sparkle or a bright sound, I believe all of the IEMs Zeos has tuned are safe-sounding. I mean, this is what I assume, but all of his IEMs tuned, whether Rinko, Nanna 2.1, etc., all sound so good and laid back. Although the sound in the Jojo is more geared toward relaxed tuning, that doesn't mean the treble isn't lively here. Let's have a detailed discussion of it.
Treble
Beginning with the treble, the response is initially pleasant and expansive but neither particularly energizing nor particularly sharp or detailed. I have no trouble accepting that the tuning is thick and warm throughout the entire response. But that doesn't mean there aren't enough details. Although the vocals are adequately detailed in the upper treble region to sound open, the instruments aren't particularly well-presented. In this area, the lack of sharp notes sometimes makes it difficult to distinguish between sounds, but it is acceptable because the response is not at all offensive given how direct it is.In the entire mix, the lower treble creates the presence that is the most energizing. In this area, both the instruments and the vocals are more distinct from one another in the mix. Although there may be some clarity issues, the sound is gentle and sufficiently detailed. The treble region is presented overall in a pleasant, clean, and expansive manner.
Mid Range
It is acceptable to produce warm, natural vocals that convey a more secure sound, but, if I'm being completely honest, the thickness of the notes is more than I can handle in this case. Although I enjoy how stress-free and light-headed I feel when listening to this IEM, the fact that I am not pursuing the mix to discover more nuances really results in a pleasing response. I'd say the mid range sounds smooth and forward in the mix because it tends to concentrate on creating such a mood. The upper mid range sounds as energizing as the lower treble, but it is smoother and more fluid, and vocals, especially female vocals, sound more authentic and organic because they are closer to their the basis. On the other hand, the instruments produce pleasing notes that, if the track permits it, can produce sibilant sounds when strongly present in the mix and typically in the higher frequencies. In comparison to how I hear the male vocals sound on most IEMs, the male vocals feel a little light. However, that is not a problem because the vocals sound normal.There is only mumbling between notes of instruments and vocals in the lower mid range, which feels extremely dense and thick. Even though it was nice to hear a bass guitar slam, it still gave the song a cloudy sound. All things considered, the mid range region sounds natural, thick, and smooth overall.
Bass
When it comes to the bass, it is heavily emphasized throughout the entire mix. It sounds warmer and more pleasing with this kind of response, which is also entertaining and lively to hear. However, the response is not tactful. Although the mid bass is also produced in large quantities, the sub bass is given more prominence. Without a doubt, the lower mid range is affected by the mid bass leak, which bloats the sound. The sub bass penetrates the ear canals with just enough subtle rumble. The impact of the bass punches isn't very strong because it's light, but the mid bass's slam and thump do reverberate in the mix. The bass heavily affects the mix because the control is poor. Although I personally do not like this kind of response, this IEM is a treat for bass lovers. Less distinct details and texture are produced by the bass' thick and dense response, but the sound is more nostalgic. Because of this, I think the bass region sounds loose, slamming, and thumping overall.
Technical Performance
Because of its superior tonal presentation, I'd say that these are not the IEMs to choose if you want a technical IEM. Of course, the stage and resolution are superior to some IEMs priced similarly, but overall, I believe there are more affordable and superior options.
Soundstage, Sound Imaging & Separation
Although the stage is wide enough to sound spacious, the depth is not very good and it covers more of the left and right sides. Although the note separation is not particularly distinct, I can identify which sound is coming from which direction. Although the imaging is clean, it is not particularly sharp, and this really disappoints me.
Speed & Resolution
Although the resolution is good, the micro details aren't telling much, leaving the macro details to only paint the picture. Notes also don't attack or decay at a particularly fast rate.
Sound Impressions
Sources
Tempotec V6 - With the V6, the audio only slightly improved in control and tactile realism. Although the bass felt somewhat controlled, the response was still thick and dense. The treble was more revealing and the mid range was less forward, which gave a more airy presentation. Technically, there were no discernible differences. The pairing is respectable and appealing.
iFi Hipdac - The sound was fine when listening with the Hipdac, there weren't any noticeable differences in the mix, but the bass became a little softer on the attack in the mid bass and the mid range shifted slightly forward, if only slightly. Again, no technical discrepancies were noted. The pairing is respectable and appealing.
Tracks
Luna Haruna - Glory days
Luna Haruna - Overfly
Rokudenashi - The Flame of Love
LMYK - 0 (zero)
ORESKABAND - Jitensya
Marina Horiuchi - Mizukagami no Sekai
RADWIMPS - Suzume
Indila - Love Story
Indila - Tourner dans le vide
Earth, Wind & Fire - September
Tom Petty - Free Fallin'
Fleetwood Mac - Everywhere
Nirvana - Smells Like Teen Spirit
Blue Oyester Cult - (Don't Fear) The Reaper
Guns 'N' Roses - Sweet Child O' Mine
The Police - Every Breath You Take
Gojira - Amazonia
TV on the radio - Wolf Like Me
Bring Me To The Horizon - Can You Feel My Heart
Bring Me To The Horizon - sTraNgeRs
Avril Lavigne - Dare To Love Me
Travis - Love Will Come Through
Gotye - Somebody That I Used To Know
DJ Shadows - Six Days (Remix) [feat. Mos Def]
Lady Gaga - Just Dance
Lil Wayne - Lollipop
Flo Rida - Low
Sebastian Lopez & Flug - Electronic Measures
Federico Mecozzi - Blue (Da Ba Dee)
Wayve - Not Enough
Kai Wachi & TeZATalks - Ghost
NGHTMRE, Zeds Dead & Tori Levett - Shady Intentions
Zeds Dead, DNMO & GG Magree - Save My Grave
Skrillex, Noisia, josh pan & Dylan Brady - Supersonic
Skrillex & Nai Barghouti - Xena
Skrillex, Missy Elliott & Mr. Oizo - RATATA
Kaifi Khalil, Eva B & Wahab Bugti - Kana Yaari
A.R. Rahman, Javed Ali & Mohit Chauhan - Kun Faya Kun
Conclusion
To sum up this review, I must say that if you prefer an enjoyable sound that is affordable on a tight budget, these are by far the best options available. Of course, The Jojos are for you if you require a more tranquil and smooth response that doesn't make you chase after nuances added to the mix but instead offers enjoyment of everything as a whole. Although I must caution the techies, bass lovers can go all out.
Specs:
Driver 10mm Composite membrane dynamic driver
Impedance 32 ohms
Freq. Range 20-20KHz
Sensitivity 106dB
Material zinc alloy die-casting + gold sheet (18K real gold plated)
Stock Cable 3.5mm four-strand silver-plated aluminum foil wire
Cable Length 1.2 meters
Connector 0.78mm 2pin connector
Microphone no
Okay the color choice is unique, but it works and looks good to my Suprise!
Package is small but colorful. inside is the unit, tips of different sizes and a thick cable, but unfortunately no case just the canvas pouch is provided too bad I was down for a pink case.
Build is that standard 05 series build so if those were a problem these will be too, fit wise for me it was just finding the right tips. It should be noted I love the cable and the color and style are attractive.
Sound:
The first thing noted are the BASS it is powerful and well textured but slow and bloomy, bass lacks refinement but is lush and deep.
Next Mids are thick and warm, just like grandma's oatmeal cookies. Vocals and instrument have a recession as with most V-shaped signatures. Still there is smoothness here and it can be pleasant.
Treble comes in relaxed and smoothed over, there is low energy up top and seems lackluster.
Staging is above average in depth but a little wider, it isn't a super holographic and even completely accurate stage.
Afterthoughts:
This IEM is not for the critical listener, it is a fun non serious IEM, to me it's a guilty pleasure. While there are more technical Bass IEM the fun is its charm.
Jojo's Bizarre Adventure is a Japanese manga series created by Araki Hirohiko and it is said that it was heavily inspired from another manga series, Hokuto No Ken also known as Fist of the North Star. It's an action-adventure genre and it has some elements like some characters have unusual pose, having some unique perspective scenes and some choices of gaudy colour schemes that makes them somewhat appealing and became a butt of a meme in the internet.
It seems that it is somehow connected or where they got the inspiration for today's product that I'll do a review right now. This is BLON x Z JOJO, it is one of the BLON's products that was part of a collaboration project. I did a review before on a BLON product and it is also a collaboration project product with another well-known audio reviewer on YouTube.
This one is also another collaboration project with another YouTube audio reviewer, Zeos Pantera also known as Z Reviews. It seems that the BLON JOJO is somewhat a variant of BLON BL05 that was released 3 years ago and it is said that BLON made some modifications just to suit Zeos' preferred tuning choice.
BLON JOJO has a single 10mm dynamic driver on each channel whose diaphragms are made of composite materials to deliver a very responsive and can yield a higher sonic output with a very minimal amount of distortion. The drivers were enclosed in a zinc alloy shell chassis in an elliptical shape with a piece of gold-plated sheet in the form of a key. I actually admire the design and aesthetics of BLON JOJO but the choice of colour they choose, which is a lavender magenta, is somewhat too garish and gaudy in my taste.
The fitting of this one is rather a challenging one as it takes some few minutes just to look for proper ear tips for this set that is suitable for my lugholes just to have good sealing and noise isolation as some of them are quite loose and wobbling. So far, I found one among some stock tips included in the box.
It appears that BLON includes a good quality stock cable which is quite sturdy and thick (I'm such an admirer of sturdy and beefy cables). It has a four-core, OFC silver-plated aluminium and copper wiring strands with PVC insulations and it has a 3.5mm termination plug. As for its interlocking mechanism, It uses a 0.78mm TFZ/NX7-type 2-pin which is rather unusual in my opinion.
The BLON JOJO has a rather spartan product packaging as it uses a more compact, rectangular box. Although, it has a modest amount of inclusions that we can find inside.
Here are the following contents:
■ a pair of BLON JOJO IEMs
■ Stock cable in a 3.5mm termination plug.
■ 8 pairs of ear tips of different standard sizes.
■ a sackcloth IEM pouch.
■ Some paperwork like Q.C. stub and instruction manual.
BLON JOJO is actually an easy to drive set. With a standard impedance grade and high sensitive rating, it will be able to be amplified from sources with decent power output like smartphones and tablets. It can actually scales even better on devices with more powerful DAC/Amps to have an even more dynamic sound.
As for its tonality, JOJO has a typical tuning that uber-basshead and casual listeners will be pleased with, a V-shaped sound signature that is warm and textured. It has a dominant low frequency, midrange and an emphasis on highs.
LOWS/BASS:
Certainly that it has a vigorous bass presentation as I mentioned a while ago that this is the most dominant frequency part of the Jojo. Boomy, resonating and muddled to the point that sucks out some energy from the midrange and even treble response.
It has a very expounding sub-bass that I was able to feel its rumbling and growl from instruments such as synthesisers, drum machines and low toned bass guitar lines. On the mid-bass, it appears to have very dense note weight to the point that it smudges across the midrange. Bass guitars have a broad and heavy sound while bass kick drums have a boomy, hard and full sound. Then on bass-baritone vocals have a guttural characterictic to give that dense and dark tone. But my main concern and issue on the bass quality of Jojo that vocals and bass instruments are somewhat melded together to the point that they are tangled and sounds really messy in my opinion.
MIDRANGE:
The midrange presentation of this one is definitive recessed but to the bass smearing it really gives a warmer sound on vocal and instruments. That added warmth will be a perk and advantageous to male vocals and some percussive and brass instruments but they sound a bit overemphasise.
Baritones and contraltos have too warm, excessive heavy and husky tone from their vocal qualities as I listen to Scott Weidland, Dmitri Hvorostovsky, Annie Lennox and Anggun. On tenor vocals, this set is quite picky on a particular type of tenor as it prefers more on baritenors, heldentenors and some dramatic types which have bolder and weighty sound as it lacks the spiciness and dazzling sound that I really want. Same with countertenors, mezzo-sopranos and sopranos as Jojo won't be able to deliver that emotive and expressive sound as they are quite lacking on being fiery, radiance and gleaming tone.
On instruments, string ones like guitars and violins as it sounds too warm and buttery on the former while a too mellow and calm sounding on the latter instrument. Woodwinds have this lack of airiness and brilliance that concert flutes, saxophones and clarinets seem that are tuned constantly on the low register notes that they sound dull, hollow and too mellow. Meanwhile on brass instruments like trumpets, horns and tubas, they sound a bit fuller, mellow and somehow in most cases, too muffled and veiled sounding. On percussive instruments, toms have a warmer and resonant sound from them while snares have that boomy and muffled sound as it doesn't have that cracking and precise characteristics that I want. As for pianos, they sound more on a warmer and lusher tone that is detrimental to the higher note registers.
HIGHS/TREBLE:
I thought that on first impression that it sounds too dark in my liking but finding the right ear tips for this set will be able to improve its treble response a bit. It seems that too smooth and relaxed flow on its high frequencies might not give that crisp, shimmer and detailed treble quality despite some elevation on upper mids that it sounds a bit dull and gives a lethargic attack phase of instruments especially percussions and unclear vocals. Presence treble seems to have that distant sound due to a perceived lack of clarity.
Cymbals strikes here on JOJO seem to have a lack of shimmer and sizzle as they sound too dull, dry and dark. Glockenspiels appear to have tone deficiencies on it as they don't sound brilliant and shimmering. Though hi-hats are able to have the shortened buzzing sound that we are accustomed with. Don't expect air and sparkle on this set as it only delivers a modest and a meagre one.
SOUNDSTAGE, IMAGING AND OTHER TECHNICALITIES:
As for sound/speaker stage dimensions, they have a rather narrow to average width span, an average height ceiling and above average depth that gives me that feeling of having congested headroom within my spatial chamber.
It has a typical two-dimensional stereo presentation as I was able to locate the positioning of instruments and vocals but it is rather blurry and ill-defined as I'm struggling to point out the exact placement. Separation and layering is poorly-executed as it doesn't have a gap and spacing on specific tonal elements while layering is so compacted and woolly that it will be problematic to more complex multi-instrumental tracks.
Coherency of its single dynamic driver seems to have decent performance but the way how it tunes does affect the transients and decay performance on it.
On resolution capability-wise, it focuses more on macro-dynamics than micro-detail retrieval. It has a broader note weight to give that slam and punch on volume but the micro-detail aspect, it seems that it has blunted, too-rounded and blurry on its definition as it doesn't have clarity and sharpness to extract some nuances and details of information from audio tracks.
PEER COMPARISONS:
BLON Z300
● Like its sister, Z300 is a single dynamic driver and also a collaboration with another YouTube reviewer with similar calibre. It has a 10mm dynamic with silicone diaphragms and both have employed a TFZ/NX7-type of connector like all BLON sets. Product packaging and inclusions are almost similar as both sets have good quality cable.
● Z300 has similar tuning with JOJO as both have V-shaped sound signatures. But compared to JOJO, Z300 has a tad less boomy bass and has a similar midrange quality but on treble response, it seems that Z300 appears to have that it has more relaxed and even meagre on treble air. On the technical aspects, they are almost alike with the exception that Z300 seems a tad better on resolution capability.
KIWI EARS CADENZA
● While it has single dynamic driver like JOJO, CADENZA has a different build on its shell as it is made of medical grade resin which makes it lighter and it offers superior fitting due to its UIEM form factor. While JOJO has a better stock cable, CADENZA has better overall product presentation.
● CADENZA has more "mature" sound signature as it has mild U-shaped signature as it approach a neutral tuning. It has less punchy and tighter bass response, more neutral, transparent and cleaner midrange, then more shimmering and airy treble response. On technical capabilities, CADENZA is no doubt has more superior and better technical performance any category compare to JOJO from sound/speaker up to resolution aptness.
QOA GIMLET
● Both GIMLET and JOJO have similar build material as they have a metal alloy chassis but Gimlet has more capable single DD driver which is an LCP diaphragm. And on product packaging, GIMLET has better quality of inclusions and product presentation but JOJO has better stock cable but GIMLET's isnt that far as it also has good quality cable.
● GIMLET has a warmer mild U-shaped sound signature but compare to JOJO, it is better tuned and somewhat a more refine sounding. It has a punchy bass response, more forward vocals, more natural sounding and better textured midrange, and somehow a finer treble response as it has a sufficient clarity, detail and air. Technicalities-wise, GIMLET is overall a better set from wider sound/speaker stage and better resolution capabilities.
It looks like BLON JOJO still follows an archetypical BLON product profile, a solid all-metal shell structure and a warm V-shaped sound profile that is fun, engaging and likeable sound that will be pleasant to listen and caters towards more on casual listeners. This is definitely not a technically competent set as it doesn't have those characteristics but it depends on the choices of listeners, Either do they want a more capable high fidelity and technical sounding set or just simply to have an enjoyable and pleasant sound quality that technicalities won't really matter?
To be honest, this is my least favourite type of tuning as it won't be able to deliver the sound quality that I really desire as its bass response is too excessive and over elaborate in my opinion. To think that this type of tuning reminds me of some old Beats By Dre, Sol Republic and even my Skullcandy Can that I just simply enjoyed in the mid-2000s up to early 2010s. So in context, BLON JOJO will probably be my most likeable set if I am still in my 20s.
BLON JOJO is now available at LINSOUL, check out the unaffiliated link down below.
★★BLON JOJO - LINSOUL★★
Also, please check out my previous reviews on other BLON products:
● BLON Z200
● BLON Z300
SPECIFICATION:
MODEL: BLON X Z JOJO
IMPEDANCE: 32Ω
SENSITIVITY: 106dB
FREQUENCY RESPONSE: 20Hz – 20KHz
CABLE LENGTH: 1.2M
PIN TYPE: TFZ/NX7-TYPE 2-PIN CONNECTOR (0.78MM)
PLUG TYPE: 3.5mm
DRIVER UNIT(S): (1) DYNAMIC DRIVER
Some Tracks Tested: ( * = 16-bit FLAC, ** = 24-bit FLAC, *'* = MQA, '*' = DSD, *'= .WAV)
Alison Krauss -When You Say Nothing At All *
Jade Wiedlin - Blue Kiss**
Led Zeppelin - When The Levee Breaks **
Mountain - Mississippi Queen *
Queen - Killer Queen **
Guns N' Roses - Patience *'*
Eric Clapton - Tears in Heaven '*'
Sergio Mendes- Never Gonna Let You Go '*'
Pearl Jam - Daughter **
Roselia - Hidamari Rhodonite *
Assassin - Fight (To Stop The Tyranny)*
Celtic Frost- Visual Aggression *
New Order - Blue Monday *
The Corrs- What Can I do (unplugged version) *
Jimi Hendrix Experience - Voodoo Child *
The Madness- Buggy Trousers *
Metallica - Motorbreath **
Mariah Carey- Always Be My Baby *
Destiny's Child - Say My Name *
Malice Mizer- Au Revoir *
Mozart - Lacrimosa *
New York Philharmonic Orchestra - Dvorak- Symphony 9 " From the New World." *
Eva Cassidy - Fields of Gold (Sting cover)*
Michael Jackson - Give In To Me *
Exciter - Violence and Force *
Diana Krall - Stop This World **
Debbie Gibson - Foolish Beat *'*
The Sisters of Mercy – Lucretia My Reflection**
Suzanne Vega – Luka **
Lauren Christy – Steep *
Ottoman Mehter - Hucum Marsi *
Diana Damrau - Mozart: Die Zauberflöte*
Type O Negative - Black No.1 *
Felix Ayo - Vivaldi: Presto **
Three Tenors - Nessum Dorma *
Mercyful Fate - Witches' Dance *
P.S.
I am not affiliated to BLON nor receive monetary incentives and financial gains as they provide me a review unit for an exchange of factual and sincere feedback from yours truly.
Once again, I would like to send my gratitude to KAREENA TANG of LINSOUL for providing this review unit. I truly appreciate her generosity and trust towards me and other reviewers.
Introduction!
Today, in this review, we take a look at the new iem Blon x Z Jojo which is priced at $49!
They come in a small box with an interesting design and on the front there are two logos, one of which is a blon and the logo of the Z reviews audio blogger and a picture of the headphones themselves, but on the back it tells about the blon company and this audio blogger.
And here the technical specifications are indicated on the side, and these headphones received 1 ten mm driver, and their sensitivity is 106db and they received 32 ohm impedance, now let's see what is included in the package and believe me, there is something there that will surprise you!
Let's take a look at what's included.
And here we are greeted for the first time by neatly arranged headphones here, and they look quite interesting, and the color of the whole case is so pink, and they received a qdc connector.
Well, on the front panel there is such a golden insert, where there are two inscriptions blon and jojo, and they also have only 1 acoustic hole on the inside of the case next to this short nozzle.
Ergonomics and convenience.
The fit is almost the same as the Kailua earbuds that I also posted my review on, it is not the deepest and tightest, so you definitely need to find the right ear pads for you.
Accessories.
There is also an instruction manual for the operation and use of headphones, and this branded bag contains such a very cool copper cable in pink tones to match the headphones, it is quite weighty with regular qdc connectors and a 3.5 connector. the plug, the cable is really great here!
Well, where without ear pads there are quite a lot of them, these are three sets of nozzles for every taste and color, the first gray ones are narrow and more bassy, the second white ones are exactly the same only in a different color, and the third ones are so elongated and also white nozzles and they are quite comfortable.
How do these headphones sound?
Well, now friends, let's talk about the most important thing, namely the sound of this model!
Low Frequencies :
Compared to Tripowin Kailua, they are more elevated, that is, this model is more bass, the basses in them are even more massive and dense, and their emphasis is slightly shifted towards the sub-bass with such a very smooth, but less accurate entry into the middle range, I will not say that this is really critical, but the lower middle it has become more weighty and full thanks to this introduction, and the midbass here is quite good, it is so punchy and it has a good kick, but it feels quite smooth and very warm.
Mid Frequencies :
And the midrange frequencies in these headphones are quite comfortable and very smooth and tonally very warm again, and the vocals are very slightly pushed forward and sound more transparent, so everything is not bad with the openness and airiness of this range, although this is not the most transparent presentation of this range, but at least with the separation of instruments from the vocal part of the problems does not occur.
But the drums sound very neutral, even more neutral than in Tripowin Kaulia and they have quite good stressed transients, although of course these headphones do not go into some fierce technicality and that's why I compare them with kailua since they have similar features in the sound delivery.
High Frequencies :
The high frequencies in these headphones are quite a bit relegated to the background, there is no excessive brightness, and clearly underlined and technical cymbals, and the percussions are a bit relegated to the background, that is, these headphones have a very neutral and warm presentation with a good resolution for lovers of comfortable and long listening and less accentuated and extended high frequencies.
Stage and stereo panorama :
It is not the widest, but rather more optimal and similar in structure and separation to the Tripowin Kailua headphones.
My conclusion on these headphones :
Blon x Z Jojo surprised me with their good kit for this price, and a nice smooth neutral tuning for fans of a more pumping bass!
Link where you can buy them!
https://www.linsoul.com/products/blon-x-z-reviews-jojo
Icygenius was with you, I will be glad if you subscribe to my YouTube channel and watch this full review on Blon x Z Jojo!
REVIEW:
Today, in this review, we take a look at the new iem Blon x Z Jojo which is priced at $49!
They come in a small box with an interesting design and on the front there are two logos, one of which is a blon and the logo of the Z reviews audio blogger and a picture of the headphones themselves, but on the back it tells about the blon company and this audio blogger.
And here the technical specifications are indicated on the side, and these headphones received 1 ten mm driver, and their sensitivity is 106db and they received 32 ohm impedance, now let's see what is included in the package and believe me, there is something there that will surprise you!
Let's take a look at what's included.
And here we are greeted for the first time by neatly arranged headphones here, and they look quite interesting, and the color of the whole case is so pink, and they received a qdc connector.
Well, on the front panel there is such a golden insert, where there are two inscriptions blon and jojo, and they also have only 1 acoustic hole on the inside of the case next to this short nozzle.
Ergonomics and convenience.
The fit is almost the same as the Kailua earbuds that I also posted my review on, it is not the deepest and tightest, so you definitely need to find the right ear pads for you.
Accessories.
There is also an instruction manual for the operation and use of headphones, and this branded bag contains such a very cool copper cable in pink tones to match the headphones, it is quite weighty with regular qdc connectors and a 3.5 connector. the plug, the cable is really great here!
Well, where without ear pads there are quite a lot of them, these are three sets of nozzles for every taste and color, the first gray ones are narrow and more bassy, the second white ones are exactly the same only in a different color, and the third ones are so elongated and also white nozzles and they are quite comfortable.
How do these headphones sound?
Well, now friends, let's talk about the most important thing, namely the sound of this model!
Low Frequencies :
Compared to Tripowin Kailua, they are more elevated, that is, this model is more bass, the basses in them are even more massive and dense, and their emphasis is slightly shifted towards the sub-bass with such a very smooth, but less accurate entry into the middle range, I will not say that this is really critical, but the lower middle it has become more weighty and full thanks to this introduction, and the midbass here is quite good, it is so punchy and it has a good kick, but it feels quite smooth and very warm.
Mid Frequencies :
And the midrange frequencies in these headphones are quite comfortable and very smooth and tonally very warm again, and the vocals are very slightly pushed forward and sound more transparent, so everything is not bad with the openness and airiness of this range, although this is not the most transparent presentation of this range, but at least with the separation of instruments from the vocal part of the problems does not occur.
But the drums sound very neutral, even more neutral than in Tripowin Kaulia and they have quite good stressed transients, although of course these headphones do not go into some fierce technicality and that's why I compare them with kailua since they have similar features in the sound delivery.
High Frequencies :
The high frequencies in these headphones are quite a bit relegated to the background, there is no excessive brightness, and clearly underlined and technical cymbals, and the percussions are a bit relegated to the background, that is, these headphones have a very neutral and warm presentation with a good resolution for lovers of comfortable and long listening and less accentuated and extended high frequencies.
Stage and stereo panorama :
It is not the widest, but rather more optimal and similar in structure and separation to the Tripowin Kailua headphones.
My conclusion on these headphones :
Blon x Z Jojo surprised me with their good kit for this price, and a nice smooth neutral tuning for fans of a more pumping bass!
Link where you can buy them!
https://www.linsoul.com/products/blon-x-z-reviews-jojo
Icygenius was with you, I will be glad if you subscribe to my YouTube channel and watch this full review on Blon x Z Jojo!
REVIEW:
𝑩𝑳𝑶𝑵 𝒙 𝒁 𝑹𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘𝒔 𝑱𝑶𝑱𝑶 𝑹𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘: 𝑩𝒊𝒛𝒂𝒓𝒓𝒆 𝒅𝒆𝒔𝒊𝒈𝒏, 𝒇𝒂𝒎𝒊𝒍𝒊𝒂𝒓 𝒆𝒙𝒆𝒄𝒖𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏
|| 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗱𝘂𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 ||
Collaborations are one thing, but brand recognition is another. BLON is known in not only the budget space of the hobby but throughout it in general with the really popular releases such as the OG BLON BL03 spewing a huge amount of interest in the brand.
Now with their recognition of the hobby, and in my opinion, a lack of another hugely successful release such as the BL03, BLON as a brand may seem to like a one-hit-wonder.
After the collaboration between the HawaiiBadBoy with the Z300 which we already saw and reviewed, BLON is trying another collaboration with the popular reviewer Zeos of Z Reviews, to give what is basically a BL05 shell, his own twist.
Price at around $49 as of time of writing, and is equipped with an unassuming 10mm dynamic driver. Can BLON thrive in this ever evolving and ever so competitive price range that once stood at the top?
|| 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗺𝗲𝗿𝘀 ||
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𝗜 𝗮𝗺 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝗮𝗳𝗳𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝗕𝗟𝗢𝗡 𝗻𝗼𝗿 𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗲𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗺𝗼𝗻𝗲𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗳𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗴𝗮𝗶𝗻𝘀 𝗮𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘆 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝘃𝗶𝗱𝗲 𝗺𝗲 𝗮 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄 𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻 𝗲𝘅𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗳𝗮𝗰𝘁𝘂𝗮𝗹 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝗳𝗲𝗲𝗱𝗯𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀 𝘁𝗿𝘂𝗹𝘆.
𝗢𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗮𝗴𝗮𝗶𝗻, 𝗜 𝘄𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝘀𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝗺𝘆 𝗴𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘁𝘂𝗱𝗲 𝘁𝗼 Linsoul Audio 𝗲𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹𝗹𝘆 𝘁𝗼 𝗠𝘀. 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗮 𝗖𝗵𝗲𝗻 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝘃𝗶𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄 𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁. 𝗜 𝘁𝗿𝘂𝗹𝘆 𝗮𝗽𝗽𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗶𝗿 𝗴𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗿𝗼𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗿𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝘁𝗼𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱𝘀 𝗺𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗼𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄𝗲𝗿𝘀.
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| 𝗣𝗮𝗰𝗸𝗮𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗴 |
It comes with the small OEM box that some of you are probably familiar with but is now repainted to a pink-blue gradient and a pretty tasteful render of the IEM earpieces on the front. All the standard texts and information as of course scattered throughout the box.
| 𝗨𝗻𝗯𝗼𝘅𝗶𝗻𝗴 & 𝗔𝗰𝗰𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀 |
Opening the box of the JOJO will immediately greet you with the earpieces encased in foam that is topped with paper and a protective clear plastic that allows you to see the item without it falling down. Underneath that is some paperwork the BLON standard issue jute pouch that contains the additional accessories like the included cable and ear tips.
𝗜𝘁𝗲𝗺 𝗕𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗸𝗱𝗼𝘄𝗻:
Paperwork
BLON branded jute pouch
BLON X Zeos JOJO earpieces
4-core SPC 3.5mm cable(Pseudo-NX7)
9 sets of ear tips, 3 pairs of each size(S/M/L)
I like the fact that the cable’s color is in match with the theme of the earpieces, that being silver and pink. The cable looks great and feels great. It doesn’t weigh down the ear pieces and behaves well.
The only thing that is a downside in my opinion is the BLON is still using that somewhat custom connector that is a derivative of a NX7 connector. This makes it so that any other cables that aren’t made for BLON sets don't fit perfectly with cables like 2-pin.
BLON has made great improvements with the stock cable that they have been including similar to the Z300 from their old cheap feeling thing cable that many proclaimed unusable or bad.
Overall, the accessories is quite barebones, the jute sack is nice but a better cloth material would’ve been better.
| 𝗕𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱 & 𝗗𝗿𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗳𝗶𝗴𝘂𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 |
The BLON JOJO feels great in the hand. Considering that this is a BLON set, you know it’s made with quality metals like most of their other sets. It is light yet hefty enough to not feel cheap. There are no sharp edges but there are a few divots around the earpiece where I think the pieces are held together.
The body is basically a revised shell of the old BL05, but instead of a metallic silver, it has this satin-like finish in the shade of pink. The faceplate has this metallic gold accent that has branding on it. The connector is placed on the top and is slightly angled, akin to the Shure SE series and some of the most recent Sennheiser IE series. The nozzle is can be a tad bit short but at least it has a lip to help the ear tip in place as well as a single vent located near it.
It comes with a 10mm composite membrane dynamic driver which is unlike the 10mm CNT driver that is in the BL05. It’s a tried and tested driver, though a lot of sets in this price range now even offer hybrid setup or even a planar. A good dynamic driver can go a long way but it will still have its downsides compared to other driver types that excels in one thing but suffers in another.
| 𝗜𝘀𝗼𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 |
The isolation is below average. It doesn’t block outside noise that well but still mutes them. This is probably due to not being able to have deeper insertion depth resulting from the nozzle as well as being a universal fit.
| 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗳𝗼𝗿𝘁 |
It is really comfortable in the ears. I didn’t find myself having to remove it due to fatigue or pressure build-up in the ears. The smaller profile also makes it great for sleeping on sides if you’re into that. The occlusion effect is less than average which is great to see but is probably due to the aforementioned below average isolation performance.
** 𝗠𝗼𝗼𝗻𝗱𝗿𝗼𝗽 𝗦𝗽𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗧𝗶𝗽𝘀(𝗠𝗲𝗱𝗶𝘂𝗺) | 𝗭𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗮𝗻 𝗨𝟭 **
| 𝗗𝗿𝗶𝘃𝗮𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 |
These can be run very easily. The BLON JOJO is not power-hungry which is a given because of the single dynamic driver for the configuration and you can easily power these with a phone if you so wish.
|| 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱 ||
I have no prior experience with the predecessor of the shell that the BLON JOJO is using therefore I can’t quite say my opinions if they are an improvement over the original BL05. All I can say is that I prefer the Z300 over this.
| 𝗕𝗮𝘀𝘀 |
Quantity over quality. Mid bass is abundant but is really bloated. Despite the huge amounts of it, I find that the impact is quite soft and slow in decay. Sub bass is very minimal but the presence of it isn’t the most up front and center.
Overall I find the bass mediocre. It does bleed by a noticeable amount and I would prefer the Z300’s bass quality.
| 𝗠𝗶𝗱𝘀 |
Because of the prominence of the bass, the midrange is affected by it. Vocals have nice warmth and presence, though some vocalists sound nasally in my experience. Sibilance is still present though not as extreme nor blatant like other sets.
Instruments have good note weight but extension and air could be improved. There is no shouty-ness or metallic timbre considering that this is a single dynamic driver setup.
| 𝗛𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘀 |
Though not harsh, the BLON JOJO does lack sparkle to offer things such as details and brilliance. I find the highs are not that forward resulting in an instrument extension that is mediocre and a sound output that is not that revealing.
I think this is done on purpose to provide a more relaxing sound but that lack of treble refinement and forwardness only nets a sound that is rather unresolving in my experience. At least the mid treble didn’t bother me as much.
| 𝗧𝗲𝗰𝗵𝗻𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗲𝘀 |
Staging is not that wide nor is too intimate. Layering and separation is just average, it doesn't sound precise to allow you to pinpoint sound with accurate detail but at the same time doesn’t sound congested that it turns into a blob during busier passages of some songs.
I don’t suggest using this on any analytical work or for competitive FPS gaming though single player RPG games and movies would work decently with the abundant bass amounts.
|| 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗼𝗻𝘀 ||
Looking at posted graphs, this seems to have a really high low-end that even exceeds that of the Z300 which I already find really warm. Even before looking at graphs and going just purely on ear experience, I find that I would rather choose the later Z300 over this for sound.
I find the Z300 more refined and had better quality in terms of sound performance across the board compared to the BLON JOJO. The BLON JOJO is really not that impressive in my book even for the price range that it’s currently at. The Z300 seems to be a better deal in my opinion.
|| 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗰𝗹𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 ||
While I do like the fit and finish of the BLON JOJO, sound-wise, there are still more things that can be improved. All of this compounded in what I think to be a not-so-worth-it of a buy in terms of sound but it does look good, feel great, and is comfortable if you value those in the same level or higher than sound performance.
[| 𝐏𝐮𝐫𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐋𝐢𝐧𝐤𝐬 |]
https://www.linsoul.com/products/blon-x-z-reviews-jojo
(𝗧𝗵𝗲𝘀𝗲 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝗮𝗳𝗳𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗸𝘀. 𝗜 𝗱𝗼 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝗴𝗮𝗶𝗻 𝗮𝗻𝘆𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘄𝗵𝗮𝘁𝘀𝗼𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝘂𝗽𝗼𝗻 𝗽𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗵𝗮𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘀𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝗮𝗶𝗱 𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗸𝘀)
|| 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗱𝘂𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 ||
Collaborations are one thing, but brand recognition is another. BLON is known in not only the budget space of the hobby but throughout it in general with the really popular releases such as the OG BLON BL03 spewing a huge amount of interest in the brand.
Now with their recognition of the hobby, and in my opinion, a lack of another hugely successful release such as the BL03, BLON as a brand may seem to like a one-hit-wonder.
After the collaboration between the HawaiiBadBoy with the Z300 which we already saw and reviewed, BLON is trying another collaboration with the popular reviewer Zeos of Z Reviews, to give what is basically a BL05 shell, his own twist.
Price at around $49 as of time of writing, and is equipped with an unassuming 10mm dynamic driver. Can BLON thrive in this ever evolving and ever so competitive price range that once stood at the top?
|| 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗺𝗲𝗿𝘀 ||
- I am in no way, shape, or form affiliated with the brands I review and do not give out preview privileges.
- This set is sent in exchange for an honest review. There is no material or financial incentive for me to do this review and I guarantee no exchange has been done by both
parties to influence or sway our opinions on this product.
- My thoughts and opinions are of my own. My experience will entirely differ from everybody else. The contents of this review should not be considered factual as this hobby heavily leans on subjectivity. YMMV.
- I don’t do rankings or tier lists as they can get outdated immediately as a reviewer can change their thoughts of a product to a certain extent. If you do want a recommendation then feel free to reach out so I can help out.
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𝗜 𝗮𝗺 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝗮𝗳𝗳𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝗕𝗟𝗢𝗡 𝗻𝗼𝗿 𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗲𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗺𝗼𝗻𝗲𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗳𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗴𝗮𝗶𝗻𝘀 𝗮𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘆 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝘃𝗶𝗱𝗲 𝗺𝗲 𝗮 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄 𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻 𝗲𝘅𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗳𝗮𝗰𝘁𝘂𝗮𝗹 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝗳𝗲𝗲𝗱𝗯𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀 𝘁𝗿𝘂𝗹𝘆.
𝗢𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗮𝗴𝗮𝗶𝗻, 𝗜 𝘄𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝘀𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝗺𝘆 𝗴𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘁𝘂𝗱𝗲 𝘁𝗼 Linsoul Audio 𝗲𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹𝗹𝘆 𝘁𝗼 𝗠𝘀. 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗮 𝗖𝗵𝗲𝗻 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝘃𝗶𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄 𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁. 𝗜 𝘁𝗿𝘂𝗹𝘆 𝗮𝗽𝗽𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗶𝗿 𝗴𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗿𝗼𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗿𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝘁𝗼𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱𝘀 𝗺𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗼𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄𝗲𝗿𝘀.
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| 𝗣𝗮𝗰𝗸𝗮𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗴 |
It comes with the small OEM box that some of you are probably familiar with but is now repainted to a pink-blue gradient and a pretty tasteful render of the IEM earpieces on the front. All the standard texts and information as of course scattered throughout the box.
| 𝗨𝗻𝗯𝗼𝘅𝗶𝗻𝗴 & 𝗔𝗰𝗰𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀 |
Opening the box of the JOJO will immediately greet you with the earpieces encased in foam that is topped with paper and a protective clear plastic that allows you to see the item without it falling down. Underneath that is some paperwork the BLON standard issue jute pouch that contains the additional accessories like the included cable and ear tips.
𝗜𝘁𝗲𝗺 𝗕𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗸𝗱𝗼𝘄𝗻:
Paperwork
BLON branded jute pouch
BLON X Zeos JOJO earpieces
4-core SPC 3.5mm cable(Pseudo-NX7)
9 sets of ear tips, 3 pairs of each size(S/M/L)
I like the fact that the cable’s color is in match with the theme of the earpieces, that being silver and pink. The cable looks great and feels great. It doesn’t weigh down the ear pieces and behaves well.
The only thing that is a downside in my opinion is the BLON is still using that somewhat custom connector that is a derivative of a NX7 connector. This makes it so that any other cables that aren’t made for BLON sets don't fit perfectly with cables like 2-pin.
BLON has made great improvements with the stock cable that they have been including similar to the Z300 from their old cheap feeling thing cable that many proclaimed unusable or bad.
Overall, the accessories is quite barebones, the jute sack is nice but a better cloth material would’ve been better.
| 𝗕𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱 & 𝗗𝗿𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗳𝗶𝗴𝘂𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 |
The BLON JOJO feels great in the hand. Considering that this is a BLON set, you know it’s made with quality metals like most of their other sets. It is light yet hefty enough to not feel cheap. There are no sharp edges but there are a few divots around the earpiece where I think the pieces are held together.
The body is basically a revised shell of the old BL05, but instead of a metallic silver, it has this satin-like finish in the shade of pink. The faceplate has this metallic gold accent that has branding on it. The connector is placed on the top and is slightly angled, akin to the Shure SE series and some of the most recent Sennheiser IE series. The nozzle is can be a tad bit short but at least it has a lip to help the ear tip in place as well as a single vent located near it.
It comes with a 10mm composite membrane dynamic driver which is unlike the 10mm CNT driver that is in the BL05. It’s a tried and tested driver, though a lot of sets in this price range now even offer hybrid setup or even a planar. A good dynamic driver can go a long way but it will still have its downsides compared to other driver types that excels in one thing but suffers in another.
| 𝗜𝘀𝗼𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 |
The isolation is below average. It doesn’t block outside noise that well but still mutes them. This is probably due to not being able to have deeper insertion depth resulting from the nozzle as well as being a universal fit.
| 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗳𝗼𝗿𝘁 |
It is really comfortable in the ears. I didn’t find myself having to remove it due to fatigue or pressure build-up in the ears. The smaller profile also makes it great for sleeping on sides if you’re into that. The occlusion effect is less than average which is great to see but is probably due to the aforementioned below average isolation performance.
** 𝗠𝗼𝗼𝗻𝗱𝗿𝗼𝗽 𝗦𝗽𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗧𝗶𝗽𝘀(𝗠𝗲𝗱𝗶𝘂𝗺) | 𝗭𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗮𝗻 𝗨𝟭 **
| 𝗗𝗿𝗶𝘃𝗮𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 |
These can be run very easily. The BLON JOJO is not power-hungry which is a given because of the single dynamic driver for the configuration and you can easily power these with a phone if you so wish.
|| 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱 ||
I have no prior experience with the predecessor of the shell that the BLON JOJO is using therefore I can’t quite say my opinions if they are an improvement over the original BL05. All I can say is that I prefer the Z300 over this.
| 𝗕𝗮𝘀𝘀 |
Quantity over quality. Mid bass is abundant but is really bloated. Despite the huge amounts of it, I find that the impact is quite soft and slow in decay. Sub bass is very minimal but the presence of it isn’t the most up front and center.
Overall I find the bass mediocre. It does bleed by a noticeable amount and I would prefer the Z300’s bass quality.
| 𝗠𝗶𝗱𝘀 |
Because of the prominence of the bass, the midrange is affected by it. Vocals have nice warmth and presence, though some vocalists sound nasally in my experience. Sibilance is still present though not as extreme nor blatant like other sets.
Instruments have good note weight but extension and air could be improved. There is no shouty-ness or metallic timbre considering that this is a single dynamic driver setup.
| 𝗛𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘀 |
Though not harsh, the BLON JOJO does lack sparkle to offer things such as details and brilliance. I find the highs are not that forward resulting in an instrument extension that is mediocre and a sound output that is not that revealing.
I think this is done on purpose to provide a more relaxing sound but that lack of treble refinement and forwardness only nets a sound that is rather unresolving in my experience. At least the mid treble didn’t bother me as much.
| 𝗧𝗲𝗰𝗵𝗻𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗲𝘀 |
Staging is not that wide nor is too intimate. Layering and separation is just average, it doesn't sound precise to allow you to pinpoint sound with accurate detail but at the same time doesn’t sound congested that it turns into a blob during busier passages of some songs.
I don’t suggest using this on any analytical work or for competitive FPS gaming though single player RPG games and movies would work decently with the abundant bass amounts.
|| 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗼𝗻𝘀 ||
Looking at posted graphs, this seems to have a really high low-end that even exceeds that of the Z300 which I already find really warm. Even before looking at graphs and going just purely on ear experience, I find that I would rather choose the later Z300 over this for sound.
I find the Z300 more refined and had better quality in terms of sound performance across the board compared to the BLON JOJO. The BLON JOJO is really not that impressive in my book even for the price range that it’s currently at. The Z300 seems to be a better deal in my opinion.
|| 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗰𝗹𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 ||
While I do like the fit and finish of the BLON JOJO, sound-wise, there are still more things that can be improved. All of this compounded in what I think to be a not-so-worth-it of a buy in terms of sound but it does look good, feel great, and is comfortable if you value those in the same level or higher than sound performance.
[| 𝐏𝐮𝐫𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐋𝐢𝐧𝐤𝐬 |]
https://www.linsoul.com/products/blon-x-z-reviews-jojo
(𝗧𝗵𝗲𝘀𝗲 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝗮𝗳𝗳𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗸𝘀. 𝗜 𝗱𝗼 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝗴𝗮𝗶𝗻 𝗮𝗻𝘆𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘄𝗵𝗮𝘁𝘀𝗼𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝘂𝗽𝗼𝗻 𝗽𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗵𝗮𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘀𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝗮𝗶𝗱 𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗸𝘀)
A Players Game……….
You may have heard about Z Reviews? Guy starts out (single-handedly) shooting videos in his tiny apartment, has a way with words, but truly loves audio. Next thing you know he moves into a new big house filled with 1000s of dollars in (provided) consumer merchandise. Yet he doesn’t stop, no……he keeps getting YouTube followers and continues to influence the masses. It’s a for-sure gig that the haters will come. You know green with jealousy, jealously wishing they were a part of the party. And I want to make one thing very clear here. I’m not one of the haters, in fact I myself know more about Z Reviews than I should. You see watching the videos all these years you can’t help but learn about the man. I went to Hi/Fi shows with him (in-the-video-world), met his cat, and all around enjoyed his presence here on this planet. I know he has a penchant for red and blue R & L connectors, likes soundtracks..........and has a pole dancing girlfriend. You see I know too much, really. But that’s the age we live in, the information age. And with that.......enters the BLON x Z JOJO.
These collaborations are part of a conspiracy to get your money. Sure the operatives known as HBB, Z and Crinacle all get the greenbacks for giving a signature sound to an IEM. But do they actually provide a service for their pay? They give a face and a style......even a designer concept. It is the same as buying designer jeans or having your face on a blue beer can. Endorsing fun is what it is…….and there are few levels of fun as top-tier as a pink-colored, gold-embellished, reissue of the BL-05!
The Color:
I mean let’s get this out of the way at the start. It’s a different tone/color than regularly found in IEM land, that’s for sure. The effect of the color has a multi-dimensional thing going on. Adding the crazy provided cable which takes this whole thing over the top. I mean it’s 2X the crazies. For one the OJO-OJO looks like a freak. Too standoffish? Too over the top? At least you can find the thing easy in a pile of IEMs. Ohh, and the cable? W. T. H. Seriously W. T. H? So here’s the thing……..I’m sorry there is a lot to talk about with the use of color and aesthetics. I had a dream last night about meeting-up with a gangster girl who had a light-blue machine-gun that matched her gang's clothes, and it showed her loyalty to the gang? Colors….they can mean a lot. And if anything we can agree that this single motif has never been used before in the IEM world. Why? Simply because typically engineers are boring nerds who would make all IEMs black or silver. I’m not an engineer, really the farthest from it, but my favorite IEM color is black.
Still:
You understand that when out and about (in-public) the JOJO will merchandise itself. People see another person with their head-a-bobbin and this freak show going on inside their ears and they are curious. How could you not be? Well, the people not into headphones may not be, but even those “others” may get curious too, that’s how over the top the JOJO is.
So the very first thing I’m going to do is remove the cable. Reason being is I want to find out if the cable is worth anything. There is this all-show no-go thing going on at Redcarmoose Labs……..right now…..and I want to put an end to it. What better way than to try the JOJO with a different cable, then switch back.
The meeting of the influencers:
That’s right folks, a merging of sorts. The joining of the HBB cable straight off the 12 grams a piece BLON x HBB Z300! Yep, a commingling of BLON accessories and a commingling of influencers. While I’m here, the JOJO weights-in at a total of 8 grams a piece. That is probably average with a slight slant to heavy as far as IEMs go. Anyhow, the HBB cable is remarkable, being it proof positively benefited different IEMs that I tried it with. Now in the quest of transparency, I actually found a cable that I liked better with the BLON x HBB Z300, but that’s neither here nor there, due to myself having a love for more midrangey responses.
The BLON x HBB X BLON x Z JOJO?
Now here is the fascinating part. That while the HBB cable seemed to make the JOJO brighter and ofter a wanted dexterity inspiring me to actually showcase the going together in a photograph………another three days passes and it comes time to test both cables again for this review and an opposite effect takes place. Yep, furthest from what you would expect it took four different back and fourths to determine the JOJO included cable is superior with the JOJO. Why this happens is the mystery of cable testing, though part of it is of course relative to your sound memory and what spectrum of gear you already have been listening to. Because no matter how objective we try to be, the IEM we listened to prior is just as important as the one we have in our ears, in regards to tone.
It is also noted the JOJO cable as being twice as big as HHB’s cable. But they sound a lot like they look, with HBB’s cable being darker and more smooth, and the JOJO as owning a form of increased playfulness and openness. Now I will level with you right now. The reason the JOJO only got 3.5 stars is due to it not being as good of sonic value as some IEMs found in the current marketplace.
Yep!
The JOJO receives 3.5 stars.
3.5 stars due to overall sound. Now I only have three other prior BLON experiences.
https://www.head-fi.org/showcase/blon-x-hbb-z300-in-ear-monitor.26445/reviews#review-30890
https://www.head-fi.org/showcase/blon-z200.26000/reviews#review-29217
https://www.head-fi.org/showcase/blon-bl-01.24799/reviews#review-24869
I have only heard three BLONs:
I have never heard the predecessor, the BLON BL-05. And from what I read, it is many folks favorite BLON, while at the same time different from the BLON BL-03…….another haven’t heard, but know about. So all this doesn’t make me an expert in BLON sonics. Still I wish there was more attention to detail both in sound and in build. What I mean is a guy who promotes red and blue R and L colors on his cables doesn’t ever provide the smallest dot of red and blue on his signature IEM. Am I being too critical here? Well if you were to note just how faint the R and L markings are on the cable, you may agree?
Please don’t get me wrong, I mean the JOJO is fine to a point, if you are almost asleep and hankering for background music to get ZZZs to then it is probably fine? There is in fact a nice smooth acceptability to the JOJO sound that comes off bass heavy, but also well done. It is just at the retail price of $49.00, there are bigger fish and stronger fish swimming in today's IEM pond. Namely the SIMGOT EW200.
https://www.linsoul.com/products/blon-x-z-reviews-jojo
https://www.linsoul.com/products/simgot-ew200
You see for less money ($39.99) you get 2X the sound. Let that sink-in. Yep the SIMGOT EW200 rules. And it’s not Z’s fault that a revolutionary IEM came out at exactly the same time. He was sitting back and working at his desk (everyone knows his desk) and another effort was put into play that would garner his (and BLON's) efforts obsolete.
So I present to you the ultimate IEM in the under $50.00 realm.
https://www.head-fi.org/showcase/simgot-ew200.26518/reviews#review-31446
Now you could look at the review and wonder why I didn’t give the EW200 a full five stars? I gave it 4.5 stars. And truly I don’t have an answer as to why? All the time reviews are emotional...........even the staunchest science nerd trying to tell you reviews are a quantitative effort of small decimal points that add-up to a verifiable figure, is wrong. When it all comes down to it, when the laundry is all done, folded and put away.............the rating system is still emotional in the end. And I rate on a value per dollar scale, which means that it is sound quality per dollar spent. Now probably the EW200 deserves a full-five stars. Maybe the only reason it got 4.5 was due to Dsnuts giving it 4.5, and I didn’t want to go above that?
The SIMGOT EW200 Universal IEM
Why?
Why and how does the EW200 out perform this showboat?
1) Vividness
2) Sculpturing
3) Treble detail and realistic itemizations
4) Bass texture and separation into the stage
3) Soundstage
4) Realism
5) Authority
6) Imaging
Actually the imaging is a truly outstanding demeanor. In playback the EW200 pushes stuff both outside and into the center and forward.
Forward……If you can believe that?
Now I don’t mean forward in the midrange. In fact the single quality that kept one-half star from the rating could in fact be a slight backwards placement in a few instruments heard in the midrange imaging. So to try and explain the demeanor to you, yes……the tune is the 2019 Harman for the most part, only there could be a slight de-emphasize in a certain area of the midrange where it doesn't happen all the time, but on occasion there would be a slight lesser vibrance in character. All the while the bass, lower bass, treble and lower treble are all doing their thing and spot on. Does this make the SIMGOT EW200 bad, no to the contrary, it is the stand-out $39.99 IEM of 2023 so far from the list I’ve heard.
Packaging:
The BLON JOJO comes in the standard box, with different themes written on-top. Such statements are endearing yet at the same time their charm wanes. Such wanes come about by there not being the lust first associated with such products. Meaning the $39.00 (equal to $46.07 today) for the sound of the original BLON BL-03!
BL-03 must have created quite the hoopla. I can still feel the heat looking back on the reviews starting in 2019. With 24 full reviews, it is no wonder it became a phenomenon. Surprisingly HBB was one of the influencers which started this craze. So you see where I’m going with this. The misspelled writing on the box was part of innocence, innocent charm that many found and fell in love with.........connected to a groundbreaking budget defining IEM. Literally the BL-03 started the budget market, in and of itself. With BLON still hanging onto the writing of this BL-03 one-hit-wonder, continuing the theme song, as many bands who never ever replicated the inspiration of their debut album. Did BLON recreate the BL-03 again? Well it comes with a variation of the same box anyway.
Build:
The build is remarkable once you get past the slight quirkiness of fit. With such extra qualities as a perfect nozzle once you add a unique ear-tip to arrive at satisfactory air-tight fit. I mean that's just the thing. If this was someone's only IEM and it arrived with them sitting alone on a deserted island out in the middle of the ocean, I fear they may not get fit. I mean sure they could lay on their back with both hands holding the JOJO in correct position, but that's no way to spend your spare time! Luckily most reading this review (if anyone is) will at least have a few pairs of accessible ear-tips to find fitment. I mean it wasn't really that hard to get a great air-tight seal with a few pairs of ear-tips. Basically what we are doing is using an ear-tips length to access a theoretically longer nozzle length to find fitment. Simple really, just you need to adjust both length and circumference of the ear canal to also mix with the shape and angle of the JOJO. Such four piece construction actually uses a small hidden air-port directly positioned into the gold bezel off the front of the faceplate. A second rear air-port vent is shown easily in the photos. And while the qdc style 2Pin limits you choice of cables, it does work as planned, releasing any commitment for BLON to arrange the 2Pin mechanism inside the IEM shell. A set-back screen permits the use of a wire screen positioned out of harms way inside the nozzle. Such a nozzle finds itself medium in circumference and easily useable for most folks. There is a specific nozzle lip on the furthest extension which holds most ear-tips on fabulously. For many the build and over-all look my work even though possibly they are pure standouts in the world of audio products.
Cable:
The cable is actually the best part….maybe? I tried to attach the qdc 2Pins to the IER-Z1R to try and get a feeling of how the cable scales-up. Sadly it was a no-go due to the 2Pin cover. Though I did break-out my qdc Anole V3 IEM and tried it. Whether the actual 2pin polarity is switched here, it doesn’t matter one bit. Meaning as long as the two IEMs are sharing a common polarity they are in phase. Meaning I’m not exactly sure if the polarity is exactly like the qdc in the making, though I don’t care as the sound (as long as in-phase) is fine. While amazingly I could hear the limits of the JOJO cable, it was still actually quite good with the qdc Anole V6. And while offering a boxy tone in slight response it was still a fun ride to try it on the antithesis of the JOJO. How? The qdc Anole V6 is a three BA $549.00 semi-custom design. But more importantly the separation and delineation, the focus showed that the issues were more with the JOJO driver and tuning that the cable itself. Some may feel it’s unfair to even begin to compare the two, and it’s fine to think that way. But I’m not comparing the JOJO to the qdc Anole V3, I’m simply listening to the JOJO’s cable. Such accessories as the cable 3.5mm barrel are actually rather large, as is the splitter and chin-cinch. All the cable accessories are emblazoned with pure chrome, and constructed of metal.
The next level:
What if, what if Santa Claus was real?
Yep (to me) this sounds exactly like Z Review’s voice, the mannerisms, I’ll stop, yet of course older and all. How would I know all this, simply by watching Z Reviews, I’m a fan and I hope if he ever reads this review, he doesn’t take my final rating the wrong way……it is just my personal truth.
Maybe it’s just the East Coast thing......maybe just maybe it's an Italian thing, maybe I don’t really know what I’m talking about. But there is a little resemblance?
But what in fact…….what if we could change cables to somehow align the sound response to a different tone……..what if Santa Claus was real? In comes a Graphene Cable. Graphene will raise the midrange energies, but also dislocate the imaging into a slightly different place. The treble too gets a boost. The outcome? Well it was truly better. But of course it was a $100 cable, too. Yet the JOJO was still pretty much itself………pretty much the same in regards to the tone and technicalities. If anything I can use cables to help understand the character of an IEM. Yep, just the same as using a DAP personality to help understand IEMs. You see we as listeners have many more hours listening to our equipment than listening to the latest IEM. Does the Graphene cable makes the JOJO great or acceptable, well not to me, the JOJO is still super smooth and not holding the treble technicalities or detail to make it all worthwhile. I mean it is at this very point that I wish I had the BL-05 and BL-03 on hand to gain some sort of reference. Except if you were to read on there are other reviews that compare the two and they say that there is a style smoothness and bass accentuation which is driving the JOJO in the wrong direction. And I will take that as proof enough.
Let's hope SIMGOT approaches Z Reviews for a collaboration, if any such extras are even needed?
$49.00
https://www.linsoul.com/products/blon-x-z-reviews-jojo
Linsoul website: https://www.linsoul.com/
Linsoul Aliexpress Store: https://ddaudio.aliexpress.com/store/2894006
Linsoul USA Amazon Store link: https://www.amazon.com/s?i=merchant-items&me=A267P2DT104U3C
Disclaimer:
I want to thank Kareena of Linsoul for the love and the BLON x Z JoJo review sample.
Disclaimer:
These are one person's ideas and concepts, your results may vary.
Equipment Used:
Sony WM1Z Walkman DAP MrWalkman Firmware 3.5mm and 4.4mm
Sony WM1A Walkman DAP MrWalkman Firmware 3.5mm and 4.4mm
Sony TA-ZH1ES DAC/AMP Firmware 1.03
Electra Glide Audio Reference Glide-Reference Standard "Fatboy" Power Cord
Sony Walkman Cradle BCR-NWH10
AudioQuest Carbon USB
Shanling UA3 Dongle DAC/Amplifier 3.5mm and 4.4mm
Berry108
Just finished my write-up on it too. I'm glad that our thoughts are the same about this one!
Redcarmoose
Berry108
Yes.
Yes.
TLDR version on YouTube: TDLR - Blon x Z Jojo
The Blon x Z Jojo have been sent to me by Linsoul in exchange for the publication of my thoughts and opinions in this review. Linsoul have made no requests and, as always, I will be best to be as unbiased and honest as humanly possible in my review.
You can find a link to the Jojo via Linsoul by visiting the version of this review published on my blog (link to blog at the end of this review).
As always, it is a non affiliate link.
To avoid being repetetive in my reviews, you can find all the info about how I create the reviews, equipment used, how I receive the products and how to interpret my reviews by visiting: About my reviews
Intro…
I am going to start by absolutely clear as I always say I am going to be as honest as unbiased as humanly possible and that is still the case. However, it is possible that these IEMs already start off on a difficult note with me personally. I will try to not let that influence my review but it is possible that some of that preconceived bias makes it into this review, even if subconsciously.
What am I talking about? Well, the Jojo are based on the Blon BL05s, a set of IEMs that I reviewed way back in 2020 (you can find that review here) and still remain the set of IEMs by Blon that I most enjoyed spending time with during the review. People raved about the BL03 but personally I much preferred the BL05s. So, imagine that you have a song that you loved but haven’t heard for a very long time and then decades later (yes, 3 years in IEM terms are the equivalent of decades in the music world), somebody takes that song and makes a cover version of it… that cover version had better be damn good for you to not hate it! You are already going to be skeptical before you even hear it and preconceived biases are always difficult to get over.
I hadn’t taken the BL05s out of the closet for a very long time (years) but I remember that I found them to be less prominent in the bass area than the BL03, something I prefer, but lacking in the upper ranges, needing a little more extension and air up there. My other complaint was that the nozzle was too short (although they did fit me ok), the tips were crappy and the colour was far from something I would choose. But in short, those are my memories of the BL05s.
So, I grabbed the BL05s from their dusty case and gave them a listen. They are not as good as I remember but I have listened to a lot of IEMs since then which have given me a lot more experience as well as the quality of IEMs getting much much better since I reviewed them. While I was listening to them, I read my review of them and, while I don’t think the BL05s are as good as I remember them (memories are like that), I still pretty much agree with my findings back then.
Ok, so Zeos (who I think is a great guy and had a lot of fun with in Munich, but don’t really agree with a lot of his headphone tastes) took those BL05s and, in collaboration with Blon, came up with his “improved” version.
I am going to go into my usual review process in just a second but as a TLDR here is what I feel that has changed from my opinions of the BL05s to the Jojo:
The bass which I found more pleasurable on the BL05s than the BL03, due to being less exaggerated, is now exaggerated on the Jojo.
The upper mids which were maybe a little too present on the BL05s but tolerable, have now been reduced to a point that they are lacking.
The extension and air that was lacking on the BL05s is now lacking much more on the Jojo.
The colour that I wasn’t a fan of on the BL05s is now a different colour that I am still not a fan of.
The nozzles that could have been a little longer are still the same length and the tips that were crappy have been replaced with tips that are about the same.
I think you can all guess where this review is going, so let’s get it over with.
Presentation…
The box is more colourful than the original, that is for sure, and also looks a fair bit better. The packaging is simple and the design doesn’t scream quality but it’s sort of fun. To be honest, the packaging is something that I really don’t care about unless it is really amazing or really terrible, this is neither.
Inside we get the IEMs, the typical Blon sack for storage, the cable and 9 sets of tips (three sizes of three different types).
Nothing really special as far as packaging goes but nothing to really complain about either.
Build and aesthetics…
The build seems to be identical to that of the original BL05s, with maybe the paint being less thick. They have the same shape, the same length (short) nozzle and use the same connection style for the cable. I would have preferred it if they had opted for a normal 2 pin connection rather than the QDC style but the included cable is actually pretty decent, so you shouldn’t really need to think about swapping it.
The cable is well built, with what seems to be decent hardware (except for the plastic QDC connectors) and is a quadruple weave that uses pink/purple and silver wires, with a sparkle to them. I have no issues with the actual cable but I really can’t say I like the colour.
The aesthetics of the IEMs are basically the same as the original except in an even more “off the wall” colour. The finish is somewhere between pink and a light purple, with Jojo on the gold accents of the face plates and Blon in the center circle on one side, with the Z Reviews logo on the other. I’m afraid that, as with the cable, I can’t say I am a fan of the colour.
Comfort is exactly the same as on the original, which means that many people will suffer with the length of the nozzles, or rather the lack of it. Personally they fit me ok but I do find that I need to choose the largest tips and out of the three different types included, only the grey ones gave me a seal.
Sound…
All tracks mentioned are clickable links that allow you to open the reference track in the streaming service of your choice (YouTube, Tidal, Qobuz, Spotify, etc.)
Zeos had a set of these with him in Munich and I got to listen to them. Shortly after handing them to me, he wandered off and by the time he came back, I had passed them on to someone else, so I didn’t get asked for my opinion. At the time I thought they were overly bassy and too dark, so it was nice to avoid giving a negative answer.
When they arrived on my desk from Linsoul, I was obviously not going to avoid spending time with them but, as you will have guessed from the intro, my opinions haven’t changed that much. Now, I am not going to hate on them, that is certainly not my style as I feel that people have very different tastes, so, just because I don’t like something, it doesn’t mean it is bad, it just means I don’t like it. My aim is to explain why, so you can decide for yourself if you will like it or not (within the possibilities of judging without hearing of course).
So, before continuing, here is the graph of the Jojo with my personal preference target for reference:
And so you can see what I was referring to in regards to the original BL05s, here are the two compared:
Ok, so on with the usual procedure and starting with the subbass, it is not bad but it is not great either. There is plenty of rumble, although some other bass head sets do offer more, but I find “Chameleon” to be a little loose and not quite under control in those lower notes. Another example is “Royals” where that grit or dirt in the subbass is not quite defined on the Jojo. There is (more than) enough subbass but it just doesn't have the clarity that I would like.
The midbass is elevated and is also not the cleanest here either, although I do feel it is better defined than the subbass. Listening to “Crazy” for my usual fatigue test, it is not terribly fatiguing, I can listened to the track without needing to take a break but I find that I would prefer it to be cleaner, especially during the chorus parts of the song, where the guitar is too boomy for my tastes.
For bass guitars in classic rock, it gives them a nice body (such as in “Whole Lotta Love”) but it does make itself a little too present, moving the focus towards those ranges.
Throughout the midrange, vocals and instruments are not bad as far as timbre goes, yet the upper mids don't have quite enough presence to them to counter those lower mids and mid bass, making things lack clarity and seemingly missing presence. The original BL05s were a little too hot in this region and while I appreciate the reduction, I feel that it has been taken a little too far.
In addition to that lack of presence in the high mids, the upper frequencies are also quite subdued and roll of rather rather quickly, making the overall presentation rather dark and warm. This does work well to avoid any sign of sibilance in my usual “Code Cool” test but also makes the track seem a little lifeless and lacking clarity.
Details are masked by the general tuning and while they are not bad, the presentation does not favour the sensation of detail, with things sounding rather smoothed over. This is something that also has a bit of a negative effect on image placement. While the placement of said images is not terrible, the soundstage is sort of below average and the smoothed over presentation makes it difficult to pinpoint things, especially when a track is busy.
Vs Blon x HBB Z300…
I don’t usually do comparisons in my reviews but the Jojo are a set of IEMs that actually remind me more of the recent Z300, which is an HBB collab, than the original BL05s (at least as far as tuning goes).
Here is a graph of the Jojo vs the Z300:
As you can see, the tuning is very similar, yet listening to them side by side, there are noticeable differences.
First off, I find the Z300 to be more detailed in general. Don’t get me wrong, it is not a set that focuses on detail and to some extent suffers from the same issue as the Jojo, where the overall smoothed and warm tuning has a negative impact on the presentation of detail, or at least the appreciation of them.
The Z300 is also lacking in air and extension in the upper ranges (for my taste), yet this is even more noticeable on the Jojo, making it even more apparent. This affects image placement more on the Jojo also.
Finally there is the shape and build of the Z300, which, in my opinion, is much more mainstream than the Jojo and will be comfortable for more people. I am not a fan of gold personally either but the artwork on the shells of the Z300 is definitely more complex than the Jojo, with them also being available in Blue (which I think look good).
In general, the things about the sound of the Z300 that I wasn’t overly fond of are exaggerated on the Jojo, along with the addition of a shell that is more difficult to fit and an aesthetic that is more difficult to like (for me at least).
To be brutally honest, at a price that is $15 cheaper than the Jojo, I think the Z300 offers a better overall package.
Conclusion…
I said I wasn’t going to hate on the Jojo and I think I have managed to refrain from doing so, but I didn’t say my review would be positive. I am sure that the Jojo will fit the tastes of many out there but I see it as a difficult sale for two main reasons.
For those who loved the original BL05s, the Jojo is completely different as far as sound goes. Out of all the tweaks that I would have suggested making to the original, the only one that has been made in the right direction is the one just above 2kHz, and that has been tweaked a little too much.
For those who do like the sound signature that the Jojo presents, the Z300 already exists, which does it better and for less money. They are both by Blon and they are both sold in the same places, so the only real reason to pick the Jojo over the Z300, in my opinion, would be to support Zeos instead of HBB, which is something I am not going to comment on as that is irrelevant to my evaluation of the IEMs.
This is the first collaboration by Zeos that I have heard and, although we don’t coincide on many of our opinions about sound, I would have loved to have liked it.
Unfortunately I don’t.
____
As usual, this review is also available in Spanish both on my blog (www.achoreviews.com) and on YouTube (www.youtube.com/achoreviews)
All FR measurements of IEMs can be viewed and compared on achoreviews.squig.link
All isolation measurements of IEMs can be found on achoreviews.squig.link/isolation
BLON X Z JOJO
1DD
$49
Hi there, before I begin this review, let me thank Linsoul for providing me the review sample of the BLON X Z JOJO,
rest assured, this review is 100% my opinion and Linsoul has no input whatsoever on its content.
Just in case you're interested in the BLON X Z JOJO after reading this review,
you can get it on Linsoul website here :
https://www.linsoul.com/products/blon-x-z-reviews-jojo
Unboxing
Inside the Box You Get :
Of the IEM is pretty solid, it has the exact same BL05 & BL05S shape, BLON state that it has 18K gold sheet plated on its gold accent.
It also has standard 0.78mm pin connector, and yes you can use any 0.78mm cable on the JOJO.
Build of the Included cable is also pretty good, its a bit thick but not overly thick that makes it uncomfortable to use, it is also very flexible and not easy to tangle.
Comfort and Fitting
On my particular big ear canal, the JOJO has decent fit and comfort, though not for very long listening session, after 2hours of listening session, my ear canal do feels a bit sore, this probably a very subjective experience because everyone earlobe and ear canal shape and size is different.
Also I don't use any of its stock eartips due to seal issue, I get the best seal with Final Type E Eartips.
SOUND
Tested using iFi UNO, iFi Go BLU, Stock Cable, Final Type E Eartips
Music is mostly from Apple Music (J-POP, J-Rock, EDM, Jazz, Rap, Anisong)
The JOJO tonality in general is a Bass Boosted Neutral IEM
BASS has a very generous bass shelf that reminds me the bass of Kiwi Ears Quartet ($109).
bass itself is THICC, full bodied, the quantity of bass itself is big and can be called a bass head bass quantity.
It also has good rumble and punch to it,
TLDR, the bass is very satisfying
Mids has a referenced type kind of tuning, it placed a bit behind the bass, but not muddy at all, the overall presentation of it is on the thicker side, both male and female vocals and even instruments do feel a bit thicker than normal.
Treble is airy, sparkly and has a open sounding feel to it and it also has very good extension.
Technicalities
Stage presetation is like an empty void, but has symmetrical size in width and depth, the size itself is on the larger side and do feel very open.
Imaging for its price is very good, not holographic good, but its there, its definitely present sounds not like 2D only sound passing to your ears, but it can images objects well.
Separation for music is also very good for a bass boosted IEM, tested on Plini and nZk - Cage songs, I can't seem to find any issues with its separation.
Positioning is good, not razor sharp positioning but you can definitely point which direction the sound is coming from.
The JOJO is also pretty good for casual gaming, the sound is super immersive but not so recommended for competitive gaming, due to its boosted bass somewhat covering the foot steps.
Detail Retrieval is average, nothing special here
Comparation
Kiwi Ears Quartet ($109)
The Quartet price is more than double of the JOJO, it has a very similar tuning, though I do found the Quartet somewhat more relaxed and dark sounding compared to the JOJO.
JOJO presents its bass boosted type with an open feeling and airiness to its overall presentation.
Technicality wise, the JOJO has superior imaging and stage presentation to my ears, while the Quartet has superior detail retrieval and positioning.
Build wise, the Quartet IMO is more beautiful and definitely more ergonomic compared to the JOJO.
though JOJO has better cable compared to the Quartet.
Moondrop LAN ($40)
Both IEM are from metal, fitting on my ears is better with LAN, more comfortable for long listening session (>2hours)
LAN has a more referenced type tuning (typical VDSF target), noticeable less bass on the LAN, and a bit smoother treble presentation.
for its technicalities, its very close, though I must give an edge to LAN for competitive gaming, due to its more proper stage wall placement and more exact positioning (easier to find footsteps with LAN)
Conclusion
The BLON X Z JOJO is definitely a fun sounding IEMs, probably on my top recommendation for its value for money and its super fun sound signature.
If you're a basshead with limited budget, you won't be disappointed with the JOJO, trust me, it has BASSSSS, with good vocal and airy treble.
The only thing I can complain about the JOJO is the fact its shape is the exact same with BL05 & BL05S and its probably a rather subjective nitpicking one, because on my ears the BL05 shape is not very comfortable for a long listening session (>2hours)
Though in the end its only you who can decide whether an IEMs is worth your money or not.
Myself as a reviewer just helping each other to give more reference data on the Internet for you to process it with your own thoughts.
Just in case you're Indonesian or understand Bahasa Indonesia,
here is my video review of the JOJO
thats all from me for now.
-littlenezt.
1DD
$49
Hi there, before I begin this review, let me thank Linsoul for providing me the review sample of the BLON X Z JOJO,
rest assured, this review is 100% my opinion and Linsoul has no input whatsoever on its content.
Just in case you're interested in the BLON X Z JOJO after reading this review,
you can get it on Linsoul website here :
https://www.linsoul.com/products/blon-x-z-reviews-jojo
Unboxing
- IEM
- Cable
- 3 Set of Eartips
- User Manual
- Pouch
Of the IEM is pretty solid, it has the exact same BL05 & BL05S shape, BLON state that it has 18K gold sheet plated on its gold accent.
It also has standard 0.78mm pin connector, and yes you can use any 0.78mm cable on the JOJO.
Build of the Included cable is also pretty good, its a bit thick but not overly thick that makes it uncomfortable to use, it is also very flexible and not easy to tangle.
Comfort and Fitting
Also I don't use any of its stock eartips due to seal issue, I get the best seal with Final Type E Eartips.
SOUND
Tested using iFi UNO, iFi Go BLU, Stock Cable, Final Type E Eartips
Music is mostly from Apple Music (J-POP, J-Rock, EDM, Jazz, Rap, Anisong)
The JOJO tonality in general is a Bass Boosted Neutral IEM
BASS has a very generous bass shelf that reminds me the bass of Kiwi Ears Quartet ($109).
bass itself is THICC, full bodied, the quantity of bass itself is big and can be called a bass head bass quantity.
It also has good rumble and punch to it,
TLDR, the bass is very satisfying
Mids has a referenced type kind of tuning, it placed a bit behind the bass, but not muddy at all, the overall presentation of it is on the thicker side, both male and female vocals and even instruments do feel a bit thicker than normal.
Treble is airy, sparkly and has a open sounding feel to it and it also has very good extension.
Technicalities
Stage presetation is like an empty void, but has symmetrical size in width and depth, the size itself is on the larger side and do feel very open.
Imaging for its price is very good, not holographic good, but its there, its definitely present sounds not like 2D only sound passing to your ears, but it can images objects well.
Separation for music is also very good for a bass boosted IEM, tested on Plini and nZk - Cage songs, I can't seem to find any issues with its separation.
Positioning is good, not razor sharp positioning but you can definitely point which direction the sound is coming from.
The JOJO is also pretty good for casual gaming, the sound is super immersive but not so recommended for competitive gaming, due to its boosted bass somewhat covering the foot steps.
Detail Retrieval is average, nothing special here
Comparation
Kiwi Ears Quartet ($109)
The Quartet price is more than double of the JOJO, it has a very similar tuning, though I do found the Quartet somewhat more relaxed and dark sounding compared to the JOJO.
JOJO presents its bass boosted type with an open feeling and airiness to its overall presentation.
Technicality wise, the JOJO has superior imaging and stage presentation to my ears, while the Quartet has superior detail retrieval and positioning.
Build wise, the Quartet IMO is more beautiful and definitely more ergonomic compared to the JOJO.
though JOJO has better cable compared to the Quartet.
Moondrop LAN ($40)
Both IEM are from metal, fitting on my ears is better with LAN, more comfortable for long listening session (>2hours)
LAN has a more referenced type tuning (typical VDSF target), noticeable less bass on the LAN, and a bit smoother treble presentation.
for its technicalities, its very close, though I must give an edge to LAN for competitive gaming, due to its more proper stage wall placement and more exact positioning (easier to find footsteps with LAN)
Conclusion
The BLON X Z JOJO is definitely a fun sounding IEMs, probably on my top recommendation for its value for money and its super fun sound signature.
If you're a basshead with limited budget, you won't be disappointed with the JOJO, trust me, it has BASSSSS, with good vocal and airy treble.
The only thing I can complain about the JOJO is the fact its shape is the exact same with BL05 & BL05S and its probably a rather subjective nitpicking one, because on my ears the BL05 shape is not very comfortable for a long listening session (>2hours)
Though in the end its only you who can decide whether an IEMs is worth your money or not.
Myself as a reviewer just helping each other to give more reference data on the Internet for you to process it with your own thoughts.
Just in case you're Indonesian or understand Bahasa Indonesia,
here is my video review of the JOJO
thats all from me for now.
-littlenezt.
